ashtray panel revival
 

So, i've long envied the ashtray panel bgkast made for his gauges.

However, I want to make one with space for one gauge, as well as an 120v AC outlet, USB ports, and maybe keep the 12v cigarette lighter outlet.

Yesterday I bought this power inverter at Ace hardware to use for parts. It was $25 marked down to $20 with a $10 rebate. It's smaller than it looks in person, and I don't think it would be difficult to get this all behind an ashtray panel.

Is anyone interested in this project, or can help getting these panels cut?

on the 123 there is quite a bit of room back there, but there is a relay that's back there too. be careful.

About a year ago in the Star, there was a restored bio/veggie wagon from SFO. He had a complete new wood insert built for the center console that extended into what used to be the carpeted area with cup holders and other accessories.

I'd imagine if you had the resources, there are many different things you could build into this versatile space.

It will need some ventilation. Without it you may find it getting hot and shutting down.

I would mount the inverter under the seat unless it gets wet down there.

What would you need 120v plug on the dash for? Blow dryer?

I can see it being done in the back of a wagon, or even the truck of a sedan, but not on the dash.

The reason that this inverter is made for a cupholder is so that it's not in an enclosed area. I know the inverters in motor coaches are encased in an electrical box that would help isolate any possible fire. All auto units I've seen have cooling fins and an enclosed case.

Not really something I'd want to mount in a tight space.

=8-0 If you install 120V wiring, consult an electrician or electrical PE, or the NEC if you are literate in that respect. If a hot wire shorts to the body and is unable to ground out and pop a breaker, you or a passenger could be the ground path, say with your hand on a door striker and a foot in a puddle. Starting a fire is a possibility too.

The obvious bodge of putting an inverter under the seat and running a 6' grounded extension cord under the mat puts the cord in a thermally insulated area, subject to salt, water and chafing. Since the unibody is the ground path for the electrical system it could make the whole body hot.

Whatever you do, remember that a ground path with a lower resistance than you is your friend.

blow dryer, water boiler, waffle iron...

Why stop there?
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