Ive seen a couple different people with the 4th gen console mod, im wondering how you guys did your window and power mirror switches. Im kinda stumped

Ive seen one that has a panel where the ash tray is, and another were the change holder is. How'd you build them??

thx!

 

I cut out a piece of 16ga sheet metal to fit into the ashtray location, cut holes into it for the window switches and it has one screw holding it in. I don't smoke so the ashtray spot was the best choice for me. And, it leaves a nice clean look when the lid is shut over the top of them. I've seen a few that have the switches in the little cubby hole in the front of the console, but that's where I put my cell phone.

Sorry I don't have any pics at the moment.

 

Its really simple. You have to remove the ashtray tray from the console, and you might have to trim some of the plastic to clear the wires and plugs and switch bodies. Its kind of trial and error, thats why everyone's is alittle different.

Here are some pictures of my latest one. Your best bet is to make a simple template out of cardboard, then transfer that over to some ABS or sheet metal or alum...whatever you'd like. I attached mine with self-drilling screws. It doesnt need to be built like fort knox plus you want to get it out again sometime.

I used a nice laminate for mine, but some textured paint or however you want to finish it will work just fine for ya. Also, mine has a light...which most dont have, and you dont really need. I just have weird ideas.... haha.

Below is my original made from plastic. It eventually warped and cracked. Above is the drawing I did in cad for the new one.



Here is the rough cut from alum with the holes and openings marked with pilot holes.













If you need some more help, let us know! But there really isnt much to it. You dont have to keep the door either...but its neat to be able to hide em.

J.

 

wow that turned out great, i really like how clean the panel looks. do you have a power mirror switch? if so where did you or anyone else mount theres?

 

I think you mean power mirror. I do not... Neither of my cars had power mirrors. But Ive seen guys put them up in the little cubby at the front of the 4th gen console. They make a plate, or buy a plate if there wasnt one there and mount it that way. You might even be able to move everything back and mount it on the cover panel thats right below the steering column. Kind of hidden.

J.

 

I am doing the same thing in my 85 T/A and I have been toying with mounting the P/M switch on the drivers door. Not sure yet, but its just an Idea. For power window switches, I am using some billet alum. ones I found in the summit catalog. (putting those in the ashtray)

 

I used Ford Contour window switches on a wooden plate, painted black, and mounted in the ashtray location. I am not totally satisfied with the quality, I rushed the job a bit. But, it's good enough for a while.

4th gen power mirror switch at the top of the console. No mounting plate, fits snugly in place. Wiring was slightly challenging, but not realy a big deal.

 

I did exactly the same thing ghettocruiser did. Except I have lights on the perimeter instead of just one . I like having the functioning door... I tell people its a "weather door" for when the t-tops are off haha...

I have my nitrous switches in front of the shifter, and besides, I think its too far for handy window switches...

 

Great minds thing alike! haha. Im not sure what made me put a light in there. I guess because there was already wiring for a light, so why not right?

about 80% of my bulb including the entire top is painted black. The red light (to match the dash) shines and reflects off of the metal piece on the underside of the ashtray door. Since its not a perfect mirror, the light shines back and lights up the entire area.

Not sure what made me decide to do that. I did it way back in 02 or 03...whenever I first did the console/seats.

J.

 

Here is a quick pick I took of mine, I agree about using the reflector for light enhancement...