1800 console upgrades

[SamR]

Well I keep kicking around the idea of upgrading my console so that I can flush mount my electronics and get a little more protection. Ideally, what I would like to do is to build a bolt on top for the existing console that would reuse the grab rail and windshield. This way, if or when I sell the boat or change my mind, I can easily bring it back to the original state. There are some fussy little things that I need to take into account like the taper of the existing console, but I wanted to start working out the kinks. To start, I will probably make the first one out of plywood and once I am satisfied, build a mold and lay up some fiberglass. Here are some photos of what I am considering. The face that would hold the electronics would be recessed between two "wings" on either side, hence the steering wheel vanishing into the console. Has anyone done a project like this or have any thoughts?
Many thanks,
Sam

 

[Bryan 2530]

viewtopic.php?f=11&t=9041

 

[fogwarning]

Sam,

Not sure how you did the photoshop work but I like it.

I have the same boat, just a few years older and have considered making a similar modification. However, personally, I do not want to raise my windshield as I like looking over it and having a clear view of the water. So my thought was to build a similar electonics box in the area inside the windshield. This would provide all the electronic protection without needing to raise the windshield. Just my .02 - let us know if you move forward with the mod, I would like to see the finished product.

Best, Bill

 

[Megabyte]

Sam, You might want to spend an evening browsing the project area over on ClassicMako.com.
Many of the members over there have done similar helm projects, and I think you could get some good ideas.

http://www.classicmako.com/forum/default.asp

 

[SamR]

Strick is one of my heros
When this project gets off the ground, it will be a glass in mold deal but with gelcoat instead of topcoat after the layup. I am still trying to figure out how I want to deal with the door(s) for the electronics protection. I would very much appreciate hearing from people who have console top electronics boxes and how they like their style of door (swing open / swing up). I am kicking around the idea of a rolltop but an engineering friend shot down my latest plan.

 

[Megabyte]

What if you flush mounted the instruments?
Then... just craft a Sunbrella cover for the helm when you're not running the boat.
Much simpler than trying to engineer doors.

 

[SamR]

I may go that route in the end but I am a bit stubborn. Just ask my wife :roll:

 

[Megabyte]

Might be worth a call to the factory...

 

[RagTop]

Tad late jumping in here but FYI: I purchased my 1801 with the electronics enclosure so I'm pretty sure you can purchase one of these separately.

(Took windshield off for the summer.)

 

[I'M OFF]

Why not just look and see what I did

http://www.classicparker.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=9041

Do it..Youll love it

The search feature is your friend

 

[RagTop]

I saw that...Absolutely awesome! But that approach requires talent, time and cash. I prefer scraping up the latter as opposed to faking the first two.