Hello,

 

My dash console is quite old and the switches are on their last legs.  They are old toggle switches.  I am to the point that I am thinking about taking the dash panel off and replacing it with something else.  Maybe a piece of Lexan, carbon fiber, or something else.  I would then reinstall(probably replace) the old speedometer, gas gauge, and switches, and then add a few new items like switches for lights in the storage areas, lights in the boat, and maybe a dual USB power plug for when I need to take a conference call from the boat.    Gotta love doing that. 

 

1) What materials do you suggest for the dash panel?

 

2) Are there good solutions out there for switches with labels or do you just install a switch and use stick on labels?

Finding properly labeled switches will be very difficult.  Instead, I went to a Sign shop and had them make labels for me using vinyl material with an adhesive backing.  Hint. When applying the labels, wet the panel with soapy water, position your label, then squeegee the water from beneath the label.  As for the material for your panel, I would suggest Lexan, as it is almost indestructible.

That's a great idea.  Thanks.  I can order a sheet of carbon fiber vinyl to cover the existing plastic dash and then run labels across it after having them printed.

Lexan is your best bet.  Paint one side of it the color you want.  You don't even need to be fussy with the painting, since that will be the back side of the panel.  The lexan becomes one, thick, clear coat.  Just take care to properly prep the surface you are going to paint so the paint gets a good bond.

 

A couple of suggestions.  Make all holes slightly oversize, and do not use fasteners with tapered heads that require the use of a countersink.  As tough as lexan is, fasteners with a taper on the shank make excellent wedges, and can easily crack the lexan.  Use round head, or pan head fasteners.  If you prefer the flat head screws, then use a grommet washer that is the correct size for the fasteners. 

I have a WAD of old skeeter light up switches in fairly decent shape I'd make you a deal on..let me know what youd need i'd look at em.