Custom console, part 1

Using the same buck as we made for the dash extension, we hammered a curved flange on the top edge

Marked and cut out shifter hole

Then bent flanges on the edge in the brake, and ran them through the stretcher to create a curve.  I like how the original dash, the dash extension, and the console have a layered look.... we are calling it a waterfall.

With the seat in, we measured for a flat section of console that will have cup holders and probably a tray (and boot for the aux. transmission). 

I made the second part of the console basically like a box with short sides.  It will bolt to the curved section then bolt to a support that will be welded to the tunnel near the seat.

I think before I bolt the two pieces together and shorten the curved section where they bolt together, I would like to try to get a bit more curve on the first section.

The sides will be covered to the floor and to the firewall with an upholstered panel.

~Karin~

Dash extension

Sometimes the metal worker has to be the woodworker first.

Brian has been wanting an extension to the dash for a while - something to hide the wiring better and to put switches and ignition on.  So, first I made a cardboard template - then cut it out of plywood.  Then, adding 1'' on either side for a flange, I drew it out on 20g steel.

Brian cut it out with the plasma cutter

Then, I realized I would have to have 2 of the plywood templates (bucks) to bend the flanges.  Clamping the steel between the two bucks, I started to bend the upper flange first.  At this point, we had to use the shrinker on the corners.  We used the stretcher a little on the center curve as well.

After the flange was done, it looked like it was going to work!  Now, to bend the lower flange....

We had a scary moment when we overshrunk the lower curve a little and the panel wasn't flat anymore - but after clamping it hard between the bucks again and a LOT more hammering, it turned out pretty darn good!  I did have to flatten the face a little after this pic

After several hours - finally, the extension after it was all cleaned up and ready for epoxy primer.  I am really happy how this turned out!  And, my arms are sore today from all the hammering!  We will have to cut a large hole in it for the steering column unfortunately.  Now I need to pick up some attractive stainless bolts to attach it to the dash - and think about making a center console next....

Peterbilt parts

Brian and I worked on the DT today... he welded some holes in the roof left from the semaphore and cab lights and I cut plugs for the holes that were too big to just fill.

I also worked a bit on the dash top prepping it for primer.  A while back I got a dash vent on ebay from a 40's DT.  When I started working on the dash from the 37, it was obvious that this truck had the option of a dash vent, but it didn't ever have it installed.  The hole is punched, but not removed.  I don't want to install it on top like they would have done at the factory though.  I plan to cut small oval holes the size of the vent openings and trim them with these Peterbilt glove box trim pieces.  They have a little visor on them so it will help direct the air to the windshields.  Where the bolts would have gone through to hold the vent on, Brian will weld on studs on the back so it can be bolted on from underneath with a grate of some sort sandwiched between so nothing can fall in the vents.

Then, we narrowed a Peterbilt visor... I am not sure I love it yet.   It might grow on me.