New Console Mod with Built-in Monitor

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Eric Pennal

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This is a modified center console I’ve been working on for the past several months. It’s finally finished and installed.





<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Mod/Center%20Console%20-%20Installed.jpg'>





A little background:



I wanted to add a video monitor for navigation, DVD’s, and a backup camera, but wasn’t completely happy with my available options. The in-dash units I’ve seen have small 6.5” screens, and the single DIN, motorized retractable monitors block the A/C vents. Plus, their mechanisms can malfunction or break.



I was inspired by Ryan Eylander’s modified console, in which he molded an 8” Kenwood touch-screen monitor with fiberglass. But, I didn’t want my monitor permanently exposed to sunlight and debris, or to thieves.



My solution was to design & build a console with a manually retracted 8” monitor that could be easily hidden inside the console when not in use. The new console is installed using the existing rear anchors that snap in place like the original console does. I added two screws on each side near the bottom edge of the lower panels (front and rear corners), for more stability. I included the lower panels in the design because the new upper console is slightly wider than the floor-mounted panel. I didn’t want it sticking out over the sides of the lower console half. Here's a better view of the lower panel, which is covered with vinyl to match the OEM panel.





<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Mod/Center%20Console%20Installed-4.JPG'>





I wanted the modified console to appear as “factory” as possible – something that looked like it was designed by Ford. Since I was concerned the monitor compartment lid would look like it was hiding something worth stealing, I asked WebXtremes (SeattleSportTrac) for a Sport Trac decal that I could apply to the lid to give it the look of a typical Ford style badge.



The following sequence shows how the monitor extends from the console. The “drawer” mechanism in the monitor compartment allows the monitor to extend, then pivot into place. The monitor stays attached to the mechanism and is secured firmly in place with velcro during use, though it can easily be removed, when necessary.





<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Sequence%20Pics/1.JPG'>



<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Sequence%20Pics/2.JPG'>



<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Sequence%20Pics/3.JPG'>



<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Sequence%20Pics/4.JPG'>



<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Sequence%20Pics/5.JPG'>



<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Sequence%20Pics/6.JPG'>



<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Sequence%20Pics/7.JPG'>





I have pictures of the project’s construction progress in my library. There’s also a PDF image in there of the concept drawing I created, that shows how the new design fits into the original console.

 
Last edited by a moderator:
JK II,



I guess the best way to describe how it works, is to look at this picture of the monitor box. The little square fitting is threaded into a piece of aluminum round-stock that rotates inside a metal tube, which is attached to the drawer glide. The square fitting slides back & forth inside the slot on the back of the monitor. That's the part of the drawer mechanism that allows the monitor to slide out of the compartment, and pivot into place. The drawer part simply lets it extend far enough out for the monitor to clear the opening.





<img src='http://www.zjstech.net/~library/3497/Center%20Console%20Mod/01-Monitor%20Box.JPG'>





If you open the PDF file in my "Center Console" folder (in my library) you can see a side view of this design concept. You'll have to rotate the image after you open the file. That's just the way Adobe Acrobat created it from AutoCAD.





SST,



Thanks for your part of this project. The decal looks great. ;)
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Awesome job!

Very detailed and much time went into it, I can appreciate your effort!!



What product did you use as a filler, and did you use a different product to feather?



I like your Fattie, we have somewhat near setups, they could be cousins. Are those fiberglass fenders front and rear? Who makes the struts? You do the paint also?
 
:lol: Me,



Believe me, it'll cost you more than it's worth! I spent months designing, fretting, and building on this thing, that I'll never get back. :wacko: I had to overcome one problem after another to finish it.





Thanks for the props, guys.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Eric,

Wow! That is sharp!



Great job on that installation. It looks like it came from the factory that way. You need to do a full write up and submit it as a project.



...Rich
 
chops,



Thanks. I used Elmer's Wood Filler for the finer detailed work, and Bondo for the larger filled areas. Bondo hardens up way to fast when you're trying to do smooth work in tight spaces. Wood filler is great for this kind of job, because you have a little time to manipulate it, and you can even use a little water to smooth it out after it starts to dry. Plus, it sticks like crazy, and hardens like a rock.



On this project, every single joint is glued with epoxy, and set with stainless steel screws. I didn't want it coming apart after a while.



I've seen your Fat Boy before. Hot bike! I actually like your rear fender better than mine. Both my fenders are steel, and the rear one was built from two different pieces. I thought it would look good while I was working the overall design, but it kinda annoys me now. It's too long, IMO. I designed the custom look of the bike, and have installed all the aftermarket stuff myself, but the metal fabrication and paint were done by a pro.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
That is some great work....you can tell a lot of time and effort went into the idea. Ideas like these are what I like, something that is functional, but can be easily stowed away for a stealthy look, and a clean look.
 
That looks awesome, like it came from the factory like that, but even better!
 

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