Instrument panel questions

[Sleeto]

How are radios and plotters attached to insrument panels from the back? I want move my radio, GPS and finder from the standup brackets to the panel.

Also, any suggestions on material for panel? In the past I have used black plexiglass.

[Scott]

Have you tried to get a flush mount kits for them??
Electronics usually have these kits as options for panel mounting...including the mounting brackets and sometimes cosmetic bezels
Other than that you could custom make some brackets .. but that could get involved

Another quick fix for the panel would be starboard

[Sleeto]

I have seen installations where the flush mount kit was not used.

[Sleeto]

I bit the bullet and bought the flush mount kits.

I intend to replace the whole top section of the panel (approx. 34" x 13") with black Starboard. I am wondering if 1/4" is thick enough to support all gauges, radio and fish finder/gps? Or should I go to 1/2"?

Thanks

[Scott]

Paul

You may want to talk to Miles Offshore about the ¼” starboard .....

Miles Dash…

read through this…. might help with the starboard question. I guess a lot will depend on how many electronics and if you’ve got any support behind the starboard panel.

[RS]

I am wondering if 1/4" is thick enough to support all gauges, radio and fish finder/gps? Or should I go to 1/2"?

The problem with Starboard (or Seaboard) in the length you need will expand and contract quite a bit (about 1/32 inch per linear foot over a 40 degree change). The contractions in the winter will cause the corners to crack where fastened(been there, done that). I suggest some 1/4 inch plexiglass. It is more rigid and thermally more stable.

[Miles Offshore]

1/4" is definitely to thin- 1/2" i used has done really well. i havnt had any shrinkage problems (with the startboard) so far. I took the old original panel to the plastics place and they shaped it identical to the original. Also made all the other cuts i wanted for no charge. If I might add, make yourself a template first and try different layouts until you find one you like. Your original thought might end up not being the one you choose. I found that out the hard way. Also allow yourself room for expansion as far as electronics go if you think you might upgrade. Or end up doing what i did and redoing the whole thing,lol. [img]/images/graemlins/shocked.gif[/img] [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
good luck- anything I might be able to help you with just let me know- and we like to see pictures also !!!!! craig

[gw204]

When I work with large pieces of Starboard where the expansion/contraction could be an issue, I bore my screw holes slightly oversize so the panel has room to "float" with the changes in temparature.