Kyle
Depending on how handy you are and how willing you are to doing something
"unknown", the best way to make the center console is to make it out of
fiberglass. This would eliminate the boxy shape that invariabably results
when you use plywood. I would start off by making a plywood base (1/2") and
make a plug using florist foam and shape it to the desired shape. Add an
upper base to which you will mount the door/cover. Fiberglass using felt
and resin. Use two layers of felt making sure to soak throughly. Once it
has set up, tear out the foam and build up additional layers, depending on
how you're going to use it. If its for storage only, about 1/2" should be
sufficient. If you going to install speakers in it, you will need 3/4" - 1"
of thickness. Sand the inside and paint some matching matt color, sing
thick coats to smooth out. The outside can be covered in factory matching
vinyl or fabric available at any uphostery supply house.
( Try http://www.selectproducts.com/home/index.html on the net).
Cover can be made in a similar fashion. and add foam and uphostery
material.
Note: using foam to creat a plug is very helpful in fabricating intricate
designs. Look at
http://users.jnlk.com/dakrt/homemade.htm
http://users.jnlk.com/dakrt/speaker.htm
for examples.
Good Luck!
Gilbert Vega
-----Original Message-----
From: NVMYDakota@aol.com <NVMYDakota@aol.com>
To: dakota-truck@buffnet.net <dakota-truck@buffnet.net>
Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2000 11:24 PM
Subject: Re: DML: Center Consoles/Custom Enclosures
>In a message dated 3/21/00 9:57:45 PM Mountain Standard Time,
>grndak4x4@home.com writes:
>
>> I may decide to custom build a center console for my Dak after the
buckets
>> seats are in place. First off, what kind of construction materials do
most
>> people use? I am assuming plywood, but what thickness. Also, where can I
>> find/locate some good 'interior' fabric to cover the wood up with and
make
>> it look factory, preferably close to my interior color. How would I
fasten
>> the fabric to the wood, simple staple gun?? I guess alot of the
materials
>> will be very similar to those who have built custom speaker enclosures
and
>> other items. Thanks,
>> Kyle
>> 93 Dakota 4x4 V6
>>
>
>Well that's just an overall pain in the ass... Personally I'd find a car
>stereo shop (I jsut know most carry it) and get some Chrysler color match
>vinyl... and some carpet, mix the two bottom part carpet adn top part
vinyl,
>it'll look sweet...
>
>as for material, 1/2" minimum for console, adn 3/4" minimum for the sub box
>area...
>
>Greg
>
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