Multi-Switch Panels

[mountainpete]

Hi all,

Scott's pics of his cool new switches reminded me of something I have been working on for a while. I would like to find a place to install a small switch panel on my Tacoma - ideally for 6 switches (most of the switches will just be operating relays so the smaller the better).

First, I was planning on installing a panel in the blank spot below the ashtray and to the right of the power outlets, but I am going to be installing a remote head Yaesu 8900 there (once I pass the exam :exclaim: ) So I need a different spot.

So... any ideas of a good, small switch panel and/or locations to mount it? I like my installs clean and as factory looking as possible!

Thanks,

Pete

[mountainpete]

Would a marine switch panel work?

I really like this: http://www.bepmarine.com/showproduct.cfm?productid=1071

Pete

[offroad_nomad]

Have you seen this write-up?

Clicky here. (http://www.ih8mud.com/tech/winchswitch.php)

http://www.ih8mud.com/tech/winchcontrol/SwitchPanelSafetySwitchOpen.JPG

[flyingwil]

I think this one looks good too!
http://www.parksoffroad.com/tacomamods/Front%20ARB/panel%20with%20switches%20anlarm%20in.JPG

http://www.parksoffroad.com/tacomamods/Front%20ARB/inside%20done%202.JPG

All on Peter Parks Taco... You can see more at Parksoffrad.com

[offroad_nomad]

Also, 12voltguy (http://www.12voltguy.com/index.html) can custom make switch panels for you, however they're alittle pricey:

Here's an example of a 5 switch panel, you can get custom engraving:
http://www.12voltguy.com/images/5%20engraved.jpg

[flyingwil]

12 volt guy makes some great stuff! I just don't like the whole chrome look though, mounting in certian areas could reflect the sun in your eyes. :sunny:

Would be great if it came powder coated in black as opposed to the chrome.

[offroad_nomad]

I agree, the chrome is a bit "flashy" and prefer black. I wonder if he would fab an unpainted or painted aluminum panel with switches. I bet it would be alot less then the chrome verson.


12 volt guy makes some great stuff! I just don't like the whole chrome look though, mounting in certian areas could reflect the sun in your eyes. :sunny:

Would be great if it came powder coated in black as opposed to the chrome.

[lionsbreath]

Good loking set ups but I like my Cockpit dark. In fact on my last toy I wired up some red trailer marker lites deep under my dash to give a red glow at nite when I need to get something that is on the floor and don't kill my nite vision. An idea I got from flying at nite and reading with my red out lites in the cockpit.

[Scott Brady]

I agree, the chrome is a bit "flashy" and prefer black.

It appears that I am not the only one with Chromophobia :p

That is a very nice switch panel though

I like this pod, used for Jeep TJ's (http://www.quadratec.com/cgi-bin/sgin0101.exe?T1=12500+200&UREQA=1&UREQB=2&UREQC=3&UREQD=4&FNM=00&UID=2005101322031492)

http://www.quadratec.com/photos/p25826.JPG

[offroad_nomad]

Scott,
That's pretty neat. It pod reminds me of another methods of mounting gauges. While poking around Radioshack I found these little ABS plastic project boxes (http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=270-1805):

The one in this example is 6x3x2" and makes a nice gauge pod. Use a dremel to cut the mounting holes in the face plate and mount these in several places using velcro, 3M tape, screws....
http://www.radioshack.com/images/ProductCatalog/ProductImage/270/270-1805.jpg

[mountainpete]

Great ideas guys! Chrome is right out though :shakin:

I've gpt a few ideas now and will have to do some measuring...

[Dooley]

Hi all,
Friend of mine has a race car and recommended this site,he has some of there stuff and he has had no probs.I think some of it could come in handy.

http://www.trickcableandswitch.com/

[Scott Brady]

Hi all,
Friend of mine has a race car and recommended this site,he has some of there stuff and he has had no probs.I think some of it could come in handy.

http://www.trickcableandswitch.com/

Nice post Dooley. Some great wiring solutions on that site. :clapsmile