Trojan Boat Forum

My 10 meter has gone thru many updates, but the one thing that still sticks out is the Star Trek dash. Although functional for its time, it hinders modern electronic layouts. I have started my long anticipated upgrade. I had considered utilizing the original dash but it just won't. work out. The plan is to remove it and replace with a new console that includes Vdo gauges, blue backlit Carling rocker switches, a floscan gauge, and room for 2 flush mounted MFD displays up to 12" each. this will really clean up the dash area and modernize it. I am going to be at my place in Florida for a bit so this will keep me out of trouble.
I will document this process . Here are some pics of before and with my cardboard mockup. The mockup will be pushed further forward once the original dash is removed. Also, if anyone needs a current dash, I will have it available once removed. Let me know

Interesting , should be a good layout . Only issue I see is clearance of the shifter .

As it is sitting right now the shifter clears, My plan is to move that console forward about 3 more inches once the old one is Removed. I am also planning on removing the controls and replacing with the controls in this pic.

Well, I stumbled upon this donor console at the salvage yard and got a great deal on it. This will save a lot of work vs starting from scratch. My plan is to cut the top portion off to use for the dash. It is not wide enough, so I will stretch it by glassing in an 8 inch mid section. As you can see, I have it ready to cut based off of my mock up. I will harvest a flat piece off the side of the donor console to make a back panel. Down the road I am planning on cutting out the mid section of the donor console to use as an overhead electronics console.

I would like to buy your old dash & pod.

Don't need/want the instruments

Please contact me through the Forum

RWS

Here are pics of the donor console, cutting it, making the mold to widen it, layup , and removal from mold

More layup photos

Vdo gauges after disassembly and drilling out red lenses and replacement with blue leds and blue led rocker switch panel including neat ignition start run switch. I am doing all of the wiring making custom harnesses as you can see. Heat shrink connectors, auto wire strippers, and ratcheting crimp tool are your best friend for this

Back panel template , cut, and test fit

Test fit in boat. It will get pushed forward after I remove the old console. Ergonomically it provides the same view and is easily accessed from the helm chair

Coming a long very nice .

this project will update your helm in an amazing way

the 21st Century!

once completed, how will you get behind it for service or repairs?

RWS

So the plan is the back panel remains secured to the flat dash permanently with blocking along the bottom It is going to have the terminal barrier strips on the inside. The console itself will be screwed from the sides of it to blocking that is permanently attached to the flat dash area. Wiring from the switches, gauges etc will be long enough to be able to pull the entire dash forward after it is unscrewed

Going to look nice .

The ideal situation would be a design to allow it to swing on a hinge.

Tiara had a really nice design to allow access.

Unfortunately, there just isnt the room to accomplish this

I don't think you could even raise the bridge AND lower the river to make THAT happen

RWS