Switch ideas

[rusty_tlc]

I found some neat switches that match the new ARB locker switches I'm installing in my FJ40. One style is a momentary ON/ON rocker that I think would work for a winch control.

I'm looking for ideas for mounting the switch array. I originally thought I'd make a panel that would fit in the old radio hole but I'm not sure that is the best place for the locker and winch controls. There also might not be enough room for all the switches.

Here is the list so far, in order from left to right;
Driver seat heater
Compressor
Rear locker
Front Locker
Winch enable(covered safety switch)
Winch in/out rocker
Passenger Seat heater.

I'm open to all suggestions.
If you've already done a similar project post examples of your set up (pics please)

 

[land crusher]

I welded this out of sheet metal for my 60.

 

[rusty_tlc]

Nice panel but I'm thinking I want something that gets the switches closer to my line of sight so I know when the front locker is open/locked.
Those are the same switch I'm talking about Carling Couture II series. The local electronics store carries a whole bunch of different types.

 

[EOE_overland]

Your switch order sounds reasonable. Big thing is keeping often-used switches away from switches that cause damage if hit at the wrong time. And it looks like you've done that. Nice touch with the winch enable safety! Contura switches are great. I can't remember where, but if you look around there are companies that sell the rockers with lots of different symbols on them. Looks a little nicer than stick-on labels if they're available with symbols that are close to what you're using them for. Post a pic when you get the panel done??

 

[rusty_tlc]

Your switch order sounds reasonable. Big thing is keeping often-used switches away from switches that cause damage if hit at the wrong time. And it looks like you've done that. Nice touch with the winch enable safety! Contura switches are great. I can't remember where, but if you look around there are companies that sell the rockers with lots of different symbols on them. Looks a little nicer than stick-on labels if they're available with symbols that are close to what you're using them for. Post a pic when you get the panel done??

I'll post pictures when I get it done, this is a winter project so don't expect anything real soon.

 

[tgreening]

I'll probably take some flak for this but here goes....sometimes just because you can doesn't mean you should. I'd seriously reconsider the inside winch control. Think about it. You're stuck, presumably with some outside helper that's giving directions or what-not whom you're trying to pay attention to, and you've got a panel mounted switch to control your winch. So you're going to be steering and working the gas/clutch/brake all while hunched over to your right trying to work a one finger rocker switch that isn't mounted in the most convenient of locations and is ergonomically difficult to operate.

I've seen this in action and to be honest people set up in such a fashion are a pain in the butt with all the fumbling around. There's nothing wrong with plugging in the wired remote, routing it across the hood somewhere, through the window or door jamb, and letting it lay on the dash or under the seat. Quick, easy, and when the time comes the winch control is right in your hand and you don't even have to think about it.

 

[rusty_tlc]

I'll probably take some flak for this but here goes....sometimes just because you can doesn't mean you should. I'd seriously reconsider the inside winch control. Think about it. You're stuck, presumably with some outside helper that's giving directions or what-not whom you're trying to pay attention to, and you've got a panel mounted switch to control your winch. So you're going to be steering and working the gas/clutch/brake all while hunched over to your right trying to work a one finger rocker switch that isn't mounted in the most convenient of locations and is ergonomically difficult to operate.

I've seen this in action and to be honest people set up in such a fashion are a pain in the butt with all the fumbling around. There's nothing wrong with plugging in the wired remote, routing it across the hood somewhere, through the window or door jamb, and letting it lay on the dash or under the seat. Quick, easy, and when the time comes the winch control is right in your hand and you don't even have to think about it.

As I mentioned I'm not sure I want the switches down low. I'm thinking about up high more in the line of sight while driving.

Also I won't disable the factory remote function so it will remain an option if I need to control the winch from out side. I've seen a truck driven 50 yards to a flat spot by using the winch controlled from outside to steer.

BTW I drove from the Granite Bowl to Loon Lake in exactly the manner you describe. It was one of those times I wished I could evolve a third arm.

I should post a picture of the dash area in my truck!