Pinz overhead Console...electrical mods.

Costs:

Sometime in 2002 I decided to build an overhead console. I wanted it to be able to hold a stereo, switch set & dome light.

I didn't have any real metal working tools. just a hammer, drill, hacksaw, and cut-off wheel for my dremel. I wanted it to mount to the windshield frame and rollbar. I wanted it to be light, water resistant and sturdy enough for some hard wheeling.

Basically I mage a cardboard template and put it in the cab where I thought it should go. I then bought some square aluminum tubing. I bent this tubing to shape in my vice (not the best, but the best I could do). After the frame was built, I hit radio shack for a large aluminum project box in which to mount the stereo. I played around with where it would sit, because I didn't want to hit my head on it while off road. I found a suitable position and then marked where it would need to be drilled.

At the same time, I did some re-wiring in the Pinz. Basically I bought a new 12/24v converter as those Samlex unit Patrick @ Col-War sells are CRAP. I also got a nice stereo, amplifier and speakers so I could have tunes while cruising down the interstate. At the same time, I re-wired the compressor, put on farm/tractor reverse lights (24v bulbs of course) and put in wiring for front/rear dome lights.

All these wires were becoming a real mess. I ended up getting lots of wire loom. I also put in a small 6 position fuse box behind the cab.

One I'd laid down the foundation for the wiring. I got some sheet metal to wrap around my overhead console frame. I then proceeded to wire things up, and cut holes in the sheetmetal to accommodate the dome light and multiple switches.

(note) these are the things I have on switches:

1. radio/amplifier

2. compressor

3. rear dome

4.  reverse lights (the reverse lights on the upgrade kit from Cold War SUCK!!) you can't see crap. however the brake lights are sweet. it's interesting to note that the switch they installed only works when the clutch is engaged. WTF! If  I put the truck in reverse, I want light.....not once I start moving!

5. unused switch.

I got my switch panel from a place in Denver that supplies them for ambulances and/or big rigs. The switches fit together and can be expanded. They're all rated for lots of AMPS. It's a slick system for sure.

I attached the console to the rollbar with conduit holders and some rubber bushing.

I attached it to the windshield with some exotic screws from the hardware store. Noting special.

If I'd had more tools (welder, grinder, chopsaw, tubing bender) and more time, I could have made a prettier one. BUT....this is an old army truck. IT's not a show vehicle like some wish it was. Mine does not get used regularly. I take it camping, logging, 4x4'ing, and around town to haul shit. It's not a show vehicle. I keep it well maintained, but aesthetics are low on my list. Function over form at this household.

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here are some pictures:

@ $120 with switches, wiring, metal, etc...