New Center Console

[sfd60]

I have been kicking the idea around of buying a console for my father in laws 40 for a couple of years now. Since he just gave the title to my wife last month it is on. I have been scouring Mud for different ideas and just came to the realization that I'd be better off making one. I went to a buddy that has a cnc machine and are going over specs with him to have him cut this out. He said That if I wanted to make more I needed to let him know. didn't think about that until he said it so here it goes

So I have a couple questions.....

1. What would you guys like to see on these

2. it looks like 7 inches is the better width to fit 99% of 40's

3. any other ideas would help

4. depending on price and design would people be interested in buying a custom console

5. would it be better to offer as a weld your own or complete kit or both?


Thank you for your time

 

[SouthBostonFJ40]

By the time you get into it, I think you'll find that it's easier to buy a Tuffy. Good hinges and strong latches are expensive. CCOT has their own and the latches are garbage.

 

[White Stripe]

The ability to slide a small dc minicooler in the main storage area so you could store a few cold drinks. Cup holders for front and back passengers. Steel or aluminum construction. A couple dc ports for charging devices. A spot to hold a cell phone but still be easily accessible.

 

[sfd60]

By the time you get into it, I think you'll find that it's easier to buy a Tuffy. Good hinges and strong latches are expensive. CCOT has their own and the latches are garbage.

I work for a hardware store so I think I have the latches down. Not looking to get rich on this. I have noticed that CCOT has had a lot of complaints.

 

[sfd60]

but if I could offer a inexpensive box that people want for nowadays needs.

 

[Solace in Solitude]

FWIW cruisercrap (@mmw68 ) started making/selling a center console a short while ago. FJ40 CruiserCrap.com iCrap Security Console

 

[winnie]

I have a Tuffy, and like it a lot ... it has taken a beating and still looks great ... the one thing that could be improved is a bit more open space (just behind the cupholders) for putting a phone, or change, etc, etc .. it has a bit of a shelf behind the cupholders but its of limited use ...

 

[toomanytoyzz]

By the time you get into it, I think you'll find that it's easier to buy a Tuffy. Good hinges and strong latches are expensive. CCOT has their own and the latches are garbage.

The hinge is easy considering it's purpose is to lift a 2lb. lid. Some thin round stock and tube cut to size along with your trusty welder and the hinge is done. The latch and lock would be the only real costly part along with some 14 gauge steel, foam and fabric for the armrest. Still not a bank breaker IMO.

The time involved in the project is where you're statement about it being easier to buy a Tuffy box is 1000% agreeable. With that said, I'd opt to build one over buying the standard Tuffy(ish) console with those crappy cup holders. Also, incorporate some sort of outer type tray which you can store all the crap you use on a regular while driving. I hate having to open my console (stock or not) while I'm driving especially with a sleeping passenger you need to scream at to wake up and move his/her arm in order to flip the lid open and get the toll $$ out.

 

[ZooKeeper]

Tuffy has the console mastered IMO. Can you focus on making a con-ferr style tool boxes for the back?

 

[Bang Bang]

........I hate having to open my console (stock or not) while I'm driving especially with a sleeping passenger you need to scream at to wake up and move his/her arm in order to flip the lid open and get the toll $$ out.

People can actually sleep in your 40 while you're driving???

 

[toomanytoyzz]

People can actually sleep in your 40 while you're driving???

Never said it was a 40(Cherokee XJ), but I agree with sleeping in a 40. Not really an option.

 

[sfd60]

Tuffy has the console mastered IMO. Can you focus on making a con-ferr style tool boxes for the back?

what do you mean and what kind of tool boxes

 

[ZooKeeper]

what do you mean and what kind of tool boxes

The ones that con-ferr used to make that ran along the wheel wells but didn't obstruct the bench seat.