[grommett]

I thought some of you might be interested in my control panel project. As I am sure many of you have found, the original black plastic panel was in a poor state and certainly not rigid enough to support the weight of a stereo.

My first step was to get my son (engineering graduate) to draw the panel with some small alterations to the original. As you will see in the picture, I decided to go for a single din aperture for the stereo and left out the extra hole for the cassette holder (I did think about just going for a double din but in the end I couldnt really see the benefit). I also deleted holes that were covered with blanking covers, including one of the switches - the original panel had 4 holes but only 3 switches and I hate seeing blanked off holes. I think the finished project will have a much neater appearance than the original without detracting from the original look.

I then had it laser cut from 3mm aluminium and so far I am very pleased with the result. I am now looking into the possibility of putting a radius on the visible edges. The final finish will probably be black powder coat. I will keep you updated with pictures when I get further with the project. I also hope to fix some sort of bracket on the back to help support the weight of the stereo, probably fixed with epoxy.

[ShabahZ280]

Looks good! Keep us updated!

[grommett]

Quick update:

Having got several quotes for CNC machining, it has become apparent that it is uneconomical for a one-off so I decided to put my radius on by hand. I used a file followed by wet and dry and here is the result. Next step will be powder coating.

[IMG][/IMG]

[IMG][/IMG]

[lisapaul1]

Grommett,

Your radius looks awesome. Instead of black powder coat might I suggest Black Anodize? Check around with local platers, they might be able to throw it in with another run pretty cheap. Black Anodize gives the aluminum a harder exterior...less chance of scratching.

I own a machine shop and have a Laser, if anyone is interested in having stainless or aluminum parts cut let me know. I can cut up to 1/4 " stainless and 3/16" aluminum. ( 1/2" steel )As a fellow Mariah owner ( Z272 Shabah) I understand that some of these parts are hard to find. Once I run one, I can keep the program on file for future requests.

Your machine shop was right, I would have to charge you more for the radius than making the part.

[grommett]

Hi lisapaul1

I had considered anodising which would look great, but I decided on powder coating as it will look more like the original acrylic panel. My son works for an aerospace company and I am confident he will get a good job done for me.

[lisapaul1]

Grommett

Glad you have a connection for powder coating. I'm sure it will look awesome.

Post a picture when it's installed.

Paul

[grommett]

Here it is - acid etched and powder coated in textured/matt black. I have also fitted the stereo cage and fixed a metal bracket to the back of the panel with epoxy to support the weight of the stereo (its going nowhere!) I have also now fitted the switches, 12v socket and temperature gauge ready for final fitting at the weekend. Final pics to follow.

[theeasynine]

That's awesome work. I need to do this to mine as well this winter. You have inspired me!