Am I a whacker, or what?!

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 11:10 am

Yeah, this is a work in progress. I'd really like to be able to boast MCS2000 Model II VHF & UHF's, but the funds are nowhere near available yet. Console was built from MDF, carpeted, and Troy faceplates installed. Note the fact that no manufacturer has a console that will house 12" of faceplates in a 98 F150 standard cab with bench seats.

http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 96730.html

http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 96731.html

http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 96733.html

http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 96734.html

chtucker · Post by **chtucker** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 11:43 am

One of the cleanest I have seen! GREAT WORK

Post by **alex** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 11:45 am

Nice Job.

You make the console yourself?

-Alex

jedi_saber · Post by **jedi_saber** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 11:47 am

Gotta love the bungee cords and home-camcorder. Nice console!

c17loadsmasher · Post by **c17loadsmasher** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 12:35 pm

I have a similar switch box...the model with the pursuit switch and I like it. Only gripe is that it's hard to tell in the daytime if something has accidentally been switched on...indicator lights not clear/bright enough.

Nice install though..

apco25 · Post by **apco25** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 1:07 pm

Nicely done, looks clean and elegant.

x1sspic · Post by **x1sspic** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:08 pm

trash the galls crap

Seriously - looks nice though.

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:52 pm

Thanks guys.

I constructed the console myself. The most difficult part was all of the measurements to a) make sure everything would fit properly, without sitting up to high from the trans hump, b) getting the contours of the floor and dash panels right so it would fit snug, yet still leave functionality of the ashtray, cup holders, and cig lighter. It also wraps underneath the split bench, so there are no visible gaps when looking at it.

It took a few weeks of planning, and a couple days to build. Using 3 Motorola amped speakers mounted under the dash. Whelen strobe power supply mounted under the dash as well. All wiring is run from inside the console under the dash to a distribution block, with 8 awg running to the battery through the firewall.

On the roof are 2 Larsen LM2/70B V/U antennas, and 2 LM3E825B 800 antennas. Decided to go with the LM series vs NMO because of the lower-profile mounts. Drilled the holes and mounted them myself. Ran RG-8M to the mounts vs RG58 for obvious reasons.

So far, I'm pretty happy with everything. I'd really like to add the MCS's, but it'll have to wait for now. And of course the Galls switch, enough said! Only running a Federal Highliter and the Whelen strobe pack (seperate front/rear control) with that switch at the moment, so it'll have to do.

And regarding that camcorder mount, the bungees are used for stability because I'm not about to permanently mount that camera. It's used only for storm spotting, and gets mounted up there a couple times a month for a few hours at a time.

-Ben

chtucker · Post by **chtucker** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:57 pm

http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 96750.html

Nope not a whacker, but you sure are hamsexy

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:57 pm

And for Loadsmasher..... that's what the little red switch is for next to the box. Up is "ON", then select the functions on the box. I have no need for instant on of all functions immediately, so that option added a sense of security that I'm not driving around with the lights on unknowingly.

Tue Jul 20, 2004 3:11 pm

Want a job kid?

KitN1MCC · Post by **KitN1MCC** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 5:50 pm

nice very nice, but the does that camera have a focus

erchambers · Post by **erchambers** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 6:11 pm

Very nice ben, good pictures........But I have one up on everyone here......I have seen it is person, and believe me when I say it looks like the factory put it there. Ben you done an awesome job on it.

Oh yeah, if I did not tell you already, you are definatly hired to to do my truck work!

Eric

wa2zdy · Post by **wa2zdy** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 6:14 pm

Outstanding work, especially considering you did so much of the fabrication yourself from scratch.

Good going, you could earn a living doing that I'd bet.

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 6:33 pm

Thanks for the kind thoughts everyone. This is (was) the first real install that I've done. I have to give everyone here some credit though, it wouldn't have turned out anywhere near what it did without the wealth of information on Batlabs. I still think it could've turned out better, thus the title of this thread.

Kit, yeah the camera has focus. I originally intended to just shoot video of the windshield, but it didn't work out that way

And YES, very hamsexy!

Mrbmw99 · Post by **Mrbmw99** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 6:47 pm

WOW! I do not know exactly how to put what I am thinking into words, but to say the least that is an EXCELLENT install/fabrication job! I have been sitting on the idea of a similar console myself, but I do not know if anyone makes one for my situation. I was thinking of fabricating one like this, but I was a little unsure of how it would turn out. I have attached a link to my current setup below so you can see how I have it. I have the 60/40 split bench in this truck, so I will have to work around the fact that the center seat moves when I move mine (not too often).

Is there any way I can get you to give me some insight about how you built this? I do not know much about consoles... I see that you have the cutouts for each device, did you make these too or did you buy them? What about the piece that these screw into - were did that come from? What about the carpet? You can see mine in the link, and although it's a bit dirty, its pretty similar to yours! I would really appriciate your advise on this! Thanks a bunch!

PS: I would like to leave room in this console for 2 Systems 9000 full control heads, one or two DEK boxes, as well as a switchbox. If I need to, I can drop a Systems 9000 down to a standard head, and I can loose the 2nd DEK too... Ideas?

http://batboard.batlabs.com/viewtopic.php?t=33696

Post by **Code3Response** » Tue Jul 20, 2004 9:54 pm

Ive got a MCS2000 UHF Model 2 sitting here waiting for a home if your interested. Just let me know.

911radio · Post by **911radio** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 11:53 am

What kind of camera mount is that and where can one be bought? I have been looking for something like that for a while.

Thanks,

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 12:28 pm

Brett - Are you planning on keeping the cupholder, and if not, do you know how it's secured to the hump? If you plan on keeping it, that limits your options. If you get rid of it, you open a whole new world of possibilities.

Matt - Thanks for the offer, but as I stated I really don't have the funds available.

David - It's a RAM Mount from GPS City. It's OK, and was the only thing that would work for my application. The reason I say it's just OK is because it's not as sturdy as some others that I've seen. For newer slim laptops it would work fine, but my old P2 400MHz is quite a bit more hefty than those! You might want to try Jotto or something similar. Other names slip my mind at the moment, but I'm sure others here could advise you.

Here's a link for what I have:

http://www.gpscity.com/gps/brados/6154. ... 234-3.html
http://www.gpscity.com/gps/brados/6154. ... 09v-1.html

Mrbmw99 · Post by **Mrbmw99** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 12:33 pm

KC8NIY wrote:Brett - Are you planning on keeping the cupholder, and if not, do you know how it's secured to the hump? If you plan on keeping it, that limits your options. If you get rid of it, you open a whole new world of possibilities.

I was going to get rid of the current plastic center console. Under each of the cupholders is a funky little plastic locking tab that I can turn 45 degrees then raise the console up off of the floor. I will most likely ditch that whole system. I wouldnt mind puting some cupholders into the new console when I build it, but I doubt I will have room.

Would you mind explaining how you built the structure for yours? I would basically like to re-size it to fit my Ranger. I like that style a LOT. Thanks! -Brett W

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 12:38 pm

Yeah - That's what I get for replying to these from work. The brain is completely focused here.

The CAMERA mount is also a RAM from GPS City. It was configured using a 4" suction cup with 1" ball, a 7" extension with 1" socket on each end, and a camera mount with 1" ball at the other end. I then homebrewed an adapter plate (using of all things the remnants of a 3" Troy filler plate!) that allowed the camera to mount out to the side vs directly under the mount.

This wasn't the original plan. I had planned for the mount to suction to the windshield directly above the dash, but the camera was too heavy for it to stay in place. Thus, it went up above the mirror the the applied modification.

The bungees are needed to keep the camera stable while the vehicle is in motion. If you plan on taping while moving, DONT go with this mount unless you can deal with the bungees or some other stabilization technique. If you don't mind it, then go for it. I can deal with it because the camera isn't permanent, by any stretch of the word.

apco25 · Post by **apco25** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 1:05 pm

I've done a couple ford Rangers with off the shelf Gamber-Johnsons console with slight modifications to get the right fit (you have to re-orient the base plate) and it will save yourself a ton of work.

an EPIC series 12inch console with the Ford Explorer baseplate will fit nicely in front of the 60/40 bench seat in the Ranger cab.

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 1:12 pm

As far as the structure is concerned, there's alot of thinking that went into it, as with any install I'm sure. The physical structure (materials) was easy.

The first step was determining the overall look that I wanted to have. I wanted it to look somewhat professional, and I knew most of it would have to be fabricated. Also working on a budget, I knew I would have to do it myself. MDF is easy to work with, and easy to find, so that was chosen for construction of the "box" itself.

Next was how to mount the equipment. I like the look of Troy faceplates, so they were chosen to secure everything in the box and provide a clean look on top.

Then came figuring out what the actual dimensions of the box would have to be to house everything properly. I had 12" of faceplates required, but only 10" to work with from the bench seat to the dash. Thats where the idea of the angle in the box came to play. By increasing the vertical height, I was able to gain more room, without actually gaining anymore room! It also proved to be more visually pleasing when looking at the radios from a standard angle in the driver/passenger seat.

To accomplish the angle, I also had to buy a remote mount kit for the Yaesu radio, becuase I didn't have 8" of depth to work with from the faceplate to the dash.

Once all of this was determined, I used cardboard to fabricate an outline of the dash panels and floorboard. This then became a stencil to use on the 3/4" MDF used for each side of the box. The MDF was then cut for each side panel. I then measured out bars to span internally between each side, making the unit a "whole" and not just 2 pieces of wood. These had to be cut to exact dimension, otherwise the faceplates had the possibility of splitting the MDF when screwed down.

Matching carpet was applied after the box was assembled, thus leaving no visible screwholes in the carpet. Box was then installed in the truck and secured to the floor with bolts and L-brackets. Wiring was run, and made neat. Then the faceplates with corresponding equipment were installed, and it was DONE!

So, in a nutshell Brett, you have to decide what "look" you want, and then plan everything around that. At the same time, you have to make sure what you want to do is even possible! Time to break out the tape measure and go to work

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 1:19 pm

Apco is right on track here. If you dont HAVE to custom fabricate something, I'm sure it's much easier NOT to. Off the shelf products are what I had originally intended. I wasn't afforded that capability because of the products I chose to install, the type of vehicle that I have, and the "look" I wanted to achieve. I could have purchased a Troy mount and put the Yaesu head somewhere else, but that's not what I wanted.

Mrbmw99 · Post by **Mrbmw99** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 2:11 pm

Ok, I didnt know about those boxes. I went to Gamber-Johnsons website and I do see the model for the Ranger. It does have a small box, but even then, I do not like the look of that one. I would like the custom one better because I think that it matches better. I am looking at yours right now. I think I have the main idea on how you built the box, but now as far as the radios go... I see the faceplates, but I obvisously cannot see how you secured the radios to the box. What did you do to accomplish this? Also, is it just me or does the carpet actually raise a little above the faceplates on the edge of the box? It looks like it does, and I like that look a lot. Thanks!!! -Brett W

Mrbmw99 · Post by **Mrbmw99** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 2:19 pm

Would you mind taking off one of the faceplates and snapping a few pictures of the box? Particularly the radio mounts and the top edging on the box. Also, confirm for me that you found these for $40 as I did? I went to Troys website... Thanks Ben!

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 3:17 pm

The radios actually "mount" to the faceplate, and then the faceplates are secured to the box. It's pretty easy. As for the raised carpeting, you are correct. The faceplates inherently will push the carpet down when screwed in to the box, thus creating a little bit of a lip at the edge.

As for removing the plates to take pictures, easier said than done. Lining up the plates when you screw them down can be a little bit of a pain if you want to eliminate any gaps. I'll see what I can do, but it might be a few days.

Mrbmw99 · Post by **Mrbmw99** » Wed Jul 21, 2004 8:14 pm

Ok, nevermind... I dont want to cause any trouble... I think I get the general idea. Where did you get the faceplates for your equipment? How much did you find them for? Thanks for your help! -Brett W

Post by **alex** » Thu Jul 22, 2004 7:02 am

There's a company up by me who does a lot of console building themselves - this is more to give you an idea of "if you get good at that - here's what you can do..."

You definatly have some talent, time, whatever, to get something assembled like what you did for your truck.

As someone else said, you can do well just doing setups like you have now.

-Alex

Mrbmw99 · Post by **Mrbmw99** » Thu Jul 22, 2004 9:48 am

PERFECT!!!! Now thats what I'm talking about!

Sweeeet! My problem is that in the Ranger, there's not enough room for the whole console. I only have roughly a foot of room before the seat. I kinda would like to add new cupholders too... Does anyone know what It would take to put a bucket seat on my drivers side rather than the 60/40? Thanks!! -Brett

familo77 · Post by **familo77** » Fri Jul 30, 2004 11:17 am

I wish like hell they hired you guys to do my GOV. It's good, but nowhere near the level of workmanship seen here. First rate!!

frodo · Post by **frodo** » Fri Jul 30, 2004 3:53 pm

What type of carpet do you use for those type installs? I would love to try a project like that some time.

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Sat Jul 31, 2004 5:26 pm

Any industrial quality carpet will work. Just head out to your local fabric store and pick out what you like. Just make sure it's not too thick, and it flex's enough to bend easily.

KC8NIY · Post by **KC8NIY** » Tue Aug 03, 2004 8:17 pm

I finally got around to taking and uploading some exterior pictures of the truck to the site. Check them out if you'd like.

http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 21625.html
http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 21627.html
http://home.comcast.net/~kc8niy/wsb/htm ... 21630.html

HailStorm · Post by **HailStorm** » Wed Aug 04, 2004 8:50 am

Mmmm, shiny black truck.

familo77 · Post by **familo77** » Thu Aug 05, 2004 9:52 am

In a word...bitchin'
This is an example of really high-quality work. Obviously you take some pride in your equipment. Truck looks hot by the way.