The OE dash layout is terrible at best! The monitor is too low and the radio is so low itโs almost unusable! And the HVAC controls are far too low. Not to mention the cup holder being on the floor and shallow make them useless.
So I have been working on this off and on. Finally got the console cut and assembled last weekend. I was able to fit it up to the MH on Saturday, fit like a glove, i was impressed that my template was that accurate! LOL I had the face cut out to fit today with backers for support, stability and a place to mount the oak front panel to. Tonite I was able to lay out where I think I want everything.
The open spot on the left below the monitor Iโm leaving open. Iโm hoping to get a TPMS system and I will probably mount the monitor there, as well as a USB port for the radio. The little round circle at the middle right will be the existing power outlet. Then from there the generator hour meter, and all my switches, Iโm adding 2 more for future use. The large circle at the left side will be my new USB charging outlet with built in voltage display. The open area at the bottom will not be used. I am going to make a console with built in cup holders and hopefully if I have the room a small drawer under that. That will be after I get the console installed back in the motor home.
Here are some pics.
In the 1st pic you can see how much higher and closer the monitor and radio will be.
I donโt have all the supports installed for the front panel/face yet. The face will be installed with small machine screws with T-nuts in the wood supports. This way I donโt have to worry about stripping out the wood where the screws would go in. The console is a little tall but it doesnโt block my view out of the windshield. Itโs no higher than the speedo cluster. From the outside it stands out. But I have a plan for the front of it that you can see from the outside. Iโm wrapping the console in matching vinyl if I can find the color. If not Iโm going with a dark brown which will be a nice contrast and match the interior. The oak face Iโm going to stain to try and match the plastic wood look of the original console. Iโm done for now till after Christmas.
Iโll update again if I do anything else.
Wife Kim
Son Brandon 17yrs
Daughter Marissa 16yrs
Dog Bailey
12 Forest River Georgetown 350TS Hellwig sway bars, BlueOx TrueCenter stabilizer
13 Ford Explorer Roadmaster Stowmaster 5000, VIP Tow>
A bad day camping is
better than a good day at work!