Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

[Stumpknocker]

Anybody got any great techniques for cutting out a place for a toggle switch in the dash? Installing several in my center console and really want it to look nice. Have to give it some thought before I just punch right on through with my Poulan chainsaw. Figure that at least a few of you have done it the hard way and now have many tricks and tips to pass on. Right?

 

[Stumpknocker]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

Right?

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

Hole saw?

 

[roscoe]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

What is the material and thickness of the dash?<br />Is there a problem with just drilling a hole?<br /><br />Or are you talking about installing a rectangular rocker switch?<br /><br />If you are talking about rocker switches, I would cut one hole and place a switch panel over it. Like this: <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/mall/index.cgi?prod_id=39734&current_category=switch panel&*******=058188085 <br /><br />Many sizes and shapes available. Maybe consolidate existing switches into the new panel to clean up the dash a bit.

 

[bubbakat]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

I use forestery bits to drill my switch holes.<br />You can get them in all sizes.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

One method of making a nice plate for mounting guages and switches is to cut it out from plexiglass. Sand and polish the edges, you can put a bevel on it if you like. Then paint it from the back side. Metalic paints like silver and gold look good this way. Black gives that deep clear coat look. The cover can take a beating without the paint getting scratched off. A little masking tape on the mounting surface will keep the paint from scratching if it comes loose.

 

[Stumpknocker]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

This is a fiberglass center console thats probably about 1/8 inch thick. I intend to put in a rectangular rocker switch.<br /><br />Mark42, thats a really nice idea with the plexiglass. Too bad I'm only installing one rocker switch. Maybe I can install both the bilge switch and the live well switch together in a plexiglass panel. I have an 1/8 inch round over bit that should work nice.

 

[mikecjn]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

I used my Dremel with the Roto-Zip type bit in it. I just had to take it slow so it wouldn't run away on me but it did a nice job.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

How To Make Sexy Instrument Panels: http://www.aade.com/sexypnls.htm

 

[cuzner]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

I've found high speed rotary tools(dremel,roto-zip) give the best cut.Make sure you wear safety glasses when cutting fibre glass, I've broken more than one bit cutting it and have a scar on my forehead to prove it.<br /><br /> Jim

 

[rwidman]

Re: Toggle Switch Cutout ideas

Blue Seas Systems makes the switches and mounting plates that can be ganged together. They also make a single position plate.<br /><br />

<br /><br />

<br /><br />

<br /><br />

<br /> <br />The marine centers carry the switches and can order the mounting plates if they are not in stock. You still need a rectangular hole but the plate covers any "imperfections".