Gauge face plates... Where to find

[jennis9]

I need to rework my gauges because I am adding an raymarine sport pilot. So I am looking for suggestions on either a good material to fab or a place where I can send a template to be cut.

I would like to get a new plate for the attached and am trying to stay away from a teak. I like teak, but it's not in the style of this boat. The boat is a sport craft fiberglass WAC... The new control guage is just big enough to make the dash look crowded and off center ... I need to move the two top gauges (speed and tach) over to the right to center them all and don't want to put a second plate on top of the existing. I'd like a clean look.

Thanks in advance, js9

 

[zool]

Re: Gauge face plates... Where to find

Mine is shot, so im planning on using 1/4" black starboard...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-4-BLACK-KING-STARBOARD-HDPE-12-x27-/220939237314

might be an option for you..

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Gauge face plates... Where to find

Google "plastics" near you, these places will have a huge selection of plastics with different looks to choose from.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Gauge face plates... Where to find

Totally agree with "zool"...some black "Starboard" would do the trick...
The only thing you might want to consider is if the size of the panel is much more than a foot square, and you are going to add any more/extra instrumentation, you might consider going with 1/2" thick material...
I have also read in a couple of places that the UV from sunlight tends to break down this material and cause checking and/or cracking...
I know a lot of guys in South Florida that have used this stuff as hatch covers, dash panels, and other items on their boats and have never had a problem...
Matter of fact I am currently working on a buddy's boat in my backyard that has a live well hatch cover, its 3/4" thick and approximately 2ft. X 2ft. , that has been on there several years...






I guess if you take the precaution of covering your boat when not in use, it should not be much of an issue...

 

[jennis9]

Re: Gauge face plates... Where to find

Thank you for the quick replies... Great info