starboard to flush mount electronics

TUGBOAT · #1 11-17-2003, 06:37 PM

I have 2 sets of plexi sliders gray & clear , I like the open look .The problem I have with the sliders is that the radio is split,I'm gonna make a 1 piece plexi cover that will cover the instr. panel & will keep the water out.The thickness of the panel made it tough I had to make every bracket on the back,so the instr. could be removed later. Thanks this was & is the best ("Can't wait") part of the restore !I think this (Consoles) are what most people look at.I notice Myself when admiring anothers boat I look at this,Look at Capt. steele's ! I gotta look at the console the most , Of course 1 Eye is all-ways on the Admiral !!
Thanks
I'm gonna try that pvc glue tonite,Gotta lot of scrap left.

gw204 · #2 11-18-2003, 12:36 PM

Hooper,

When I redid my instrument panel earlier this year, I used black Rowmark engraving stock. It's not as thick or as strong as starboard but you could probably epoxy some encapsulated ply to the back of it to get the strength. I didn't back mine since the installation of all the gauges firmed it up pretty well.

This way, if you wanted any functions for switches or the boat's name or even the SeaCraft logo engraved on the panel, it would not be a problem.

Good luck.

MarkR · #3 11-18-2003, 12:44 PM

I really like the engraving stock option. I am planning to re-instrument my Sceptre this winter and have found a few manufactureres of the engraving stock. I have not yet found one that has a similar woodgrain to what they used at the factory that can tollerate the UV and moisture. The plan is to replace the glove box as well and engrave the "Sceptre" text back in as well as the switch and fuse panel text. Anyone gone down this road?

gw204 · #4 11-19-2003, 01:57 AM

Mark,

The stuff I got comes in two grades, indoor and outdoor. I asked if the outdoor would stand up to the harsh marine environemnt and the guy told me yes, so that's what I got. It was almost twice as expensive as the indoor stuff.

After almost year, it still looks new. But the console stays covered when I'm not using the boat. Only time will tell but so far, it's holding up well.

Capt Chuck · #5 11-18-2003, 02:45 PM

Hey Gang

There is some new material on the market which is "Expanded Foam PVC" I used this stuff vs starboard for the gauges & back board. It can be cut, sanded, routed, shaped, painted, sealed and it's waterproof and stiff. It is a grey color in it's raw state and is available in different thickness 1/8" thru 1".Check with your local sign manufactures.
If not, there is an outfit here in Stuart,Fl called "Fantastic Plastics" (772)223-8005 who carries it. I think Mark Lewis is having some replacement parts manfactured for his boat at this place.

Just some alternative options for you [img]images/icons/cool.gif[/img]