Ok, I love some of the switch banks that fit in front of the cup holders, but I'm too darned cheap to pay $3,500 (Link) for it and am not the "kinda guy" that has a lot of carbon fiber. I'm old school. In fact, curmudgeon fits. So, I've started my own prototype. I started with Cherry (because I have some on hand) but plan to make the finished piece in Black Walnut (that I need to pick up). So here's some pics of it. I plan to recess my current Trigger-4 switch bank into it ( ). Fortunately, it's wireless so I don't have to run any new wires thru there. In fact, I'm thinking of "mounting" it by using some rare earth magnets (how rare are they, btw, if everyone has them?) to hold it down and just pull it out if I need to or to store stuff under it. I rarely use the old cigarette lighter style plug, so only plan to move forward the USB-A ( ) and USB-C ( ). Once I have everything laid out the way I like it, I'll install the switches & charging ports. Once I have that down pat, I'll get some think black walnut, mill it all out the final way, further stain/finish it a deep walnut black, and then in business.

In the meantime, two group questions: 1) Thoughts on switch layout? I'm sure I'll get lots/random opinions, but let me know yours and why. 2) Missing anything on this? Thoughts of what to add? The way it fits, I can still charge underneath (for the 12v charging, etc). I'm thinking what should be added to the mix. Thanks!


Fits pretty well. The front is actually curved slightly, so I may make the next version longer and sculpt/carve a concave front to fit closer.

Fits pretty well. Had to start with a 1.5" cherry board first.

Switches Left? I'm thinking this may be the preferred placement due to ease of use.

Middle with charging ports on either side? Not sure I need that many, but hey whatever. Maybe a compass ball or horizon indicator?

My least favorite. If used frequently, it's as far away as the volume (ok, first world problem, I know....)

 

VERY nice! I seldom work with wood these days, but I am told I am old skool. Curmudgeon? Depends on the day and quantity of coffee before noon.

I went with the kit PowerfulUk sells, but I haven't really given much thought into the practical layout, etc. It fits to the left (for LHD) of the 10.2" screen.

Since I have dark walnut, I would have to start there. You can oil and polish and fit to purpose as much as you are willing to work the wood.

 

Looks great! For me I'd like to have the USB ports nearer the driver, the switch bank in the center and the 12v to passenger side. Put me down for one if you decide to produce and sell these! I can see this looking really slick when stained and polished. Very cool.

 

I believe that is the Trigger system which uses bluetooth if I am correct. I had that in my Wrangler that was just replaced by the Defender. I used velcro to mount them on my dash in the Jeep. I don't know if I would want to mount them in that location; I have the little storage tray that sits there. Because it uses bluetooth it could go anywhere. I would think the shelf that runs almost the entire length of the dash would be perfect. If you just like them in that location, then I can't wait to see the results.