New Instrument Panel

H

happyboat

Member
Joined
Aug 13, 2006
RO Number
22815
Messages
12
Does anybody know where I can find a replacement panel for my 1987 Celebrity? The current panel is heavily oxidized, and is difficult to read. I would really like to replace the entire panel, including gauges.

I'm thinking about making a template and cutting the panel/openings myself, but am curious on how much it would cost to purchase.
 
It'll probably be impossible to find a decent used one, so plan to make a new panel or refurbish the existing one. There are companies out there that will build custom panels but you'll need deep pockets.
If you do it yourself take LOTS of pictures before disconnecting any wires. I did my Wellcraft's panel and even with pictures I had a couple gremlins to chase before everyting worked as it should.
Good luck.
 
I just had my gauge and switch panels redone by Vector LED. They turned out AWESOME!!! Pics to follow soon-

Scott Cambra
Vector LED
www.vectorled.com

Scott was great to work with and the prices were fantastic. he can get busy though, so you may need to get in line. I'm an extremely satisfied customer and can't wait to get the pics up to show off my new helm. It turned out far better than I expected.

Edited to add: All of my switch panels, the gauge panel and the gauges themselves were faded and cracked. I pulled them off and sent them out to Scott so he could dfo an exact match. My boat is over 15 years old, so no template exists for it (until now).
 
Here- I found an "after" picture of my instrument panel. I was able to use the original aluminium and powdercoat it, then add the new graphics, gauges and switches. I think it turned out great. Wish I had been smart enough to take a "before" picture!

boatdash2.jpg
 
quote:
Originally posted by arks1

Here- I found an "after" picture of my instrument panel. I was able to use the original aluminium and powdercoat it, then add the new graphics, gauges and switches. I think it turned out great. Wish I had been smart enough to take a "before" picture!

boatdash2.jpg


Click to expand...


Very Nice! It does make it so much more impressive to have a 'before' pic - I forget to do that too.

My advice is to take pictures (LOTS - especially wires), buy the new gauges if needed, and have everything ready before starting. Pay for the powercoating after you clean and sand the bare metal. Bundle the wires for each meter and label each bundle.

If you can do a good bit of the work youself, you'll save a lot of cash, you'll know the wiribg in case of any meter issues down the road, and you'll feel proud everytime you admire your instrument panel!

Good Luck!!!
 
I have a 1987 Regal, and I had the same problem. My panel was some type of plastic, faded cracked etc. I used 3/8 aluminum and made one myself. I did have some help from a friend that run a machine shop. After the panel was done, I had it powder coated, then I had the graphics people that did my boat lettering label the panel, complete with the Regal logo. It came out great.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top