Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

[bkwapisz]

This coming spring I want to re-do the dash panel on my new-to-me 89 ranger. The current material for the dash is some kind of plastic made to look like marble. I think it's 80's ugly at best and also it's getting a little brittle looking as well. In addition, I'd like to add some gauges I have been buying to the barren-looking dash layout, as well as a few more switches for livewell/baitwell timers, etc. I'm really not interested in reusing the existing piece, nor do I want to contact Ranger for another, new and equally ugly replacement piece. I am a hobbyist woodworker but I'm thinking I'd like something a little less maintenance-intensive than wood for this; and there isn't any other decorative wood on this boat. Also, I've heard that a cutting board can be used, but I'm looking for something a little more esthetically pleasing.

Anyone have any thoughts on this? Below is a picture of the current setup. Thanks in advance.

 

[boat1010]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

The way it looks you should be able to get a piece of counter top laminate. Manards or Home Depot have a pretty large selection plus it is pretty scratch resistant. Just make sure the surface under underneath is sanded and clean and glue on the laminate and cut the holes wherever you want.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

boat1010's suggestion is a great one and would have been mine as well if all you need is something thin to go on top of your fiberglass console. If you need something with a little thickness and structure....go along with your cutting board idea and google "star board". It's a similar plastic product that can be ordered in lots of different sizes.

 

[Wookie69]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

What I am going to try on mine is to get some crystal clear Epoxy resin and some carbon fiber cloth. Scuff up the old dash and apply 1 layer of carbon fiber and at least 3-4 coats of the clear epoxy. This will give you a somewhat of black dash for sun relief and the charcoal grey for a nice effect. This is of coarse an opinion of mine using my imagination, it might be nice for some and not for others. If anyone else might have some input for this process please post and enlighten.

 

[Knightgang]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

Black Plexiglass or Lexan...

 

[bkwapisz]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

All great suggestions. So far I like the laminate idea. It would be nice to get something that has texture too, maybe like an orange peel finish...

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

If this were my project, I would be looking at an aluminum plate that I would have powder coated in a gray color. Just a plain aluminum plate would also do the job....

Happy boating!

 

[slasmith1]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

ABS plastic, it has the "orange peel" effect you can usually find it at car stereo stores.

 

[83vert]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

I am using Star board.

 

[bkwapisz]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

I looked up that Starboard stuff. Is the piece in your picture the "Black" material? (I only saw it in white and black.) It actually looks like a dark gray, which would be idea for me.

 

[83vert]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

yea, it is black. I think it was $30ish dollars for the piece.

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

I too was thinking a sheet of alum. but you can also cover it with vinyl. there are alot of graphic places that can take a picture of your choosing and put on a vinyl sheet.
We have used this in the past and it looks really nice for quite awhile. Use the good vinyl tho the cheap stuff just doesnt last.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

why does grey spray painted diamond plate keep screaming in my brain?

 

[BobsGlasstream]

Re: Suggestions needed for new dash panel material

Hi Folks,
I have one other suggestion or consideration. I have been thinking about it for my boat.

Anodized Aluminum plate.

It can be done in any color you want and you can even do it yourself.
Food for thought.
Bob