Console or Switchboard for Defender - Please Help

[Jock The Rock]

Gday

I know this has been done to death a bit. But I am about to be inundated with switches, once I get the rest of my spotlights fitted as well as an interior light switch for the rear and rear work lights

In total Ill probably end up with 8 or so switches, two ARB (hopefully 3 one day), a spot for the EGT Readout and also the TM-2 Readout.

Now I've seen all the MUD consoles and Iron Goat, but they all seem pretty expensive.

I was just wondering if anyone has made there own and could they post up a photo, or a photo of there MUD console. I have a mate who does some alloy welding and I could get him to make me up something ;)

I'd prefer it not to be on top of the dash as I like being able to see out of the windscreen, and without restricting the middle seat too much. I still cart 2 other mates around every now and then :p

Heres some photos of my interior if anyone has any brilliant ideas that would be great, because I'm having a bit of trouble thinking of something myself

Thanks for your thoughts and ideas :)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/144.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/03/412.jpg

[Cameron_Def]

I have a mud console (full size) that I stuffed up and cut the stereo hole in the bottom (my stereo is too long) and does not fix, I have a new one coming from the UK.. once it arrives, your welcome to it, it will not come with the side parts, but really they are easy made.

If your keen, just put your hands up, if you are not overly concerned with cosmetics, a $2 peice of ali will make it all good again!

Cam



Gday

I know this has been done to death a bit. But I am about to be inundated with switches, once I get the rest of my spotlights fitted as well as an interior light switch for the rear and rear work lights

In total Ill probably end up with 8 or so switches, two ARB (hopefully 3 one day), a spot for the EGT Readout and also the TM-2 Readout.

Now I've seen all the MUD consoles and Iron Goat, but they all seem pretty expensive.

I was just wondering if anyone has made there own and could they post up a photo, or a photo of there MUD console. I have a mate who does some alloy welding and I could get him to make me up something ;)

I'd prefer it not to be on top of the dash as I like being able to see out of the windscreen, and without restricting the middle seat too much. I still cart 2 other mates around every now and then :p

Heres some photos of my interior if anyone has any brilliant ideas that would be great, because I'm having a bit of trouble thinking of something myself

Thanks for your thoughts and ideas :)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/144.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/03/412.jpg

[Chucaro]

Here is the MUD console in Rustic

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/09/1604.jpg

[Jock The Rock]

Here is the MUD console in Rustic



Hey mate

Is there any chance you could post up a photo of each side panel so I have a rough idea?

[dullbird]

Cam if jock doesn't take you up on your offer I would be interested....:)

[Cameron_Def]

Cam if jock doesn't take you up on your offer I would be interested....:)

Taken Sorry DB.. but my new one is coming soon, and I will most prob stuff this one up as well .. :mad: so I will keep you in mind ..

Though, I am putting a heap into it .. clearance is hard to test with 4 gauges, 2 radios and 12 switch's :(

Sigh.

[scott oz]

Cameron,

Please post the pic's and also anyone else with a modified dash. I've got three VDO gauges and the engine monitor to go in. As well a radio and something like 15 switches.

I'm going to have a go at making my own. I'm thinking of covering it with black vinal the same as they use on the dash or as close as I can get.

If it doesnt workout then I'll look at the MUD dash or iron goat.

[Chucaro]

Hey mate

Is there any chance you could post up a photo of each side panel so I have a rough idea?

RHS view

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/03/401.jpg

LHS view

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/03/402.jpg

Cheers

[abaddonxi]

There was a thread not long ago, full of pics of consoles. Worthwhile doing a search. There was a alloy console that someone had made up, looked excellent.

And from what I recall the thread title was something like mud consoles.

Simon

EDIT: http://www.aulro.com/afvb/technical-chatter/41028-mud-dash-consoles.html

Long thread.

[Michael2]

I've got a MUD, but I wouldn't do it again, it's over a days work getting it right, unless you want to butcher your dash & cut it.

I reckon you could drill and fit switches on the dash, between the current central switch panel and the ignition switch.

Other switches can go on a narrow switch board between the cubby and the drivers seat, or the front of the cubby (unless you have a middle seat instead of a cubby).

[rar110]

I've had a MUD console waiting to be fitted for months.

Do you have to cut the lower dash to fit the console if no radio is going there? Will it fit without any cutting?

[LandieMan]

I'm in the process of fitting a MUD console so if you'd like me to take some shots of the various bits and pieces I'd be happy to.

I think it's a great piece of kit and blends really well into the look and feel of the Land Rover dash.

Cheers, Iain

[Jock The Rock]

I'm in the process of fitting a MUD console so if you'd like me to take some shots of the various bits and pieces I'd be happy to.

I think it's a great piece of kit and blends really well into the look and feel of the Land Rover dash.

Cheers, Iain

Mate that would be great if you could :)

As I wont have any fitting instructions

Also any suggested improvements on the mounting plate would be appreciated. I have to make my own ;)

Thanks :)

[Chucaro]

Mate that would be great if you could :)

As I wont have any fitting instructions

Also any suggested improvements on the mounting plate would be appreciated. I have to make my own ;)

Thanks :)

In the MUD web page are very good photos to give you an idea of the job.
If you like to make a console in steel or alloy is not very hard to make the back plates providing thet you have the tools and folder .
Cheers

[rijidij]

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/03/394.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/03/395.jpg

[malsgoing130]

have you thought of using the MUD dash pod?, I think it can take up to 11 Carling style switches or combo of guages and switches. I have ordered one and should have it with in 1 week. I believe there is no drilling or cutting, I have also ordered their switch plate that goes in the cigerette lighter position, mine should have 3 switches and 2 power points- going into a 130. I have given the whole thing a lot of thought and will probably realise that I should have just got the console:D:D
Mal

[scott oz]

If you like to make a console in steel or alloy is not very hard to make the back plates providing thet you have the tools and folder .
Cheers


Chucaro,

I'm going to have a go at making my own. What gauge metal would you fabricate the face out of. My folder will do up to 1mm to 90 degrees. I was thinking of using 2mm aluminium bending to about 70 degrees and then finishing off the angle by hand.

[Chucaro]

Chucaro,

I'm going to have a go at making my own. What gauge metal would you fabricate the face out of. My folder will do up to 1mm to 90 degrees. I was thinking of using 2mm aluminium bending to about 70 degrees and then finishing off the angle by hand.

Two mill is more than enough. What you can do is cut all to size fold to 70 degrees and then go to a sheet metal shop and as them to fold to 90. It will be very cheap because all the job it has been done and the final job will be very neat.

[LandieMan]

have you thought of using the MUD dash pod?, I think it can take up to 11 Carling style switches or combo of guages and switches. I have ordered one and should have it with in 1 week. I believe there is no drilling or cutting, I have also ordered their switch plate that goes in the cigerette lighter position, mine should have 3 switches and 2 power points- going into a 130. I have given the whole thing a lot of thought and will probably realise that I should have just got the console:D:D
Mal

I have one of these in the shed that I haven't yet fitted. I'll get out there tomorrow and take a few pictures and post them.

I've been off-line for a couple of day's so I'll get around to getting those pictures of the console too for you "Jock the Rock". "Rijidij's" pictures are pretty good, the side on view tells the main story.

Cheers, Iain

[Jock The Rock]

I have one of these in the shed that I haven't yet fitted. I'll get out there tomorrow and take a few pictures and post them.

I've been off-line for a couple of day's so I'll get around to getting those pictures of the console too for you "Jock the Rock". "Rijidij's" pictures are pretty good, the side on view tells the main story.

Cheers, Iain

Yeh thats cool

If you could a picture of the mounting point mounted :p would be great, just so I have a rough idea of what to expect

Thanks mate

[Chucaro]

Jock just download THIS (http://www.mudstuff.co.uk/Fitting_Instructions/MUD-UK_Console_fitting_instructions.pdf) pdf file and you will see what it is involved ;)

[Jock The Rock]

Jock just download THIS (http://www.mudstuff.co.uk/Fitting_Instructions/MUD-UK_Console_fitting_instructions.pdf) pdf file and you will see what it is involved ;)

Should have thought of that :(

Thanks mate

[LandieMan]

Below are photos of my MUD centre console installation/mountings and the MUD Pod that's yet to be fitted. As you can see the console is a work in progress with plenty of real estate yet to be utilised. I haven't even refitted the windscreen wiper switch yet.

All that holds the metal bracket in place is 4 screws along the back (the instruction only had 2 but I added a couple). Once the Console is mounted there are another couple of screws that go into the underside of the dash just above the fuse box. Note: The bright piece of bent ally in the centre with the rubber grommet on a tab is the rear mounting for the radio.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1386.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1387.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1388.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1389.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1390.jpg

On the MUD Pod below, the two centre tabs on the ally base bend down into the ash tray hole which gives you the option of mounting it without screw holes so it can be removed and refitted to another Landie.


https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1391.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1392.jpg

If you have any more questions or want more pics just ask.

Cheers, Iain

[Koukandowie Brangus]

my console, if they are done right the consoles look original. the pod on the other hand.... but still looks reasonable.

[Chucaro]

my console, if they are done right the consoles look original. the pod on the other hand.... but still looks reasonable.

I like more the gauges on the console. There is plenty room left to fit 3 gauges there.

[LandieMan]

my console, if they are done right the consoles look original. the pod on the other hand.... but still looks reasonable.

Did you drill and screw the Pod into the top of the dashboard or did you just use the adhesive pads and the ashtray mount? I'm interested in how firmly it holds if you didn't screw it down.

Cheers, Iain

[Koukandowie Brangus]

Did you drill and screw the Pod into the top of the dashboard or did you just use the adhesive pads and the ashtray mount? I'm interested in how firmly it holds if you didn't screw it down.

Cheers, Iain

neither, i didn't screw it down, just never got around to it. I have found that after some serious 4wding it moves maybe 5mm sideways so stuff all. The tabs that bend around hold it in pretty well.

[9w2LYL]

Good day


Hope this one helps...

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/projects-tutorials/59289-dash-board-my-d90.html

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1205.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/04/1206.jpg

[Jock The Rock]

After a no show on the MUD console

I decided bugger it. About a fortnight ago I poured out all the Rice Bubbles, pinched the cardboard packaging and began making the template.

And now today I cut it all out of alloy and folded it up

So far it's cost me a Rice Bubbles packet, and diesel to get to the Alloy welder for some scrap :p

I hope to have the CD player, TM-2 and EGT Gauge holes cut out this weekend, then it will go in for powdercoating next week :)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/146.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/145.jpg

Many thanks to Peter (rar110), I did use those drawings to make up the side plates

[Chucaro]

Looks good ;)

[LandieMan]

Nice, keep the photos coming :)

[rar110]

Glad to help Jock. I am thinking of doing the same.

[Jock The Rock]

Glad to help Jock. I am thinking of doing the same.

I have the Rice Bubbles template if you want it?

Mate of mine wants one now as well, so I'll make him one then post it if you like

[Jock The Rock]

Spent all arvo on it :)

Sorry for the crappy photos

The CD player mount in and right:

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/147.jpg

TM-2, EGT and CD player in, took ages to get them sitting right:

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/148.jpg

And lastly the switches :p I got a bit carried away with the measuring and now I have provisions for 15 switches :D

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/149.jpg

Next stop powder coating then it will be in for good :)

[Sith]

Here is my set up , the consul was there but not really being used , the ARB switches were on the floor level and the Engel temp was just stuck in the middle somewhere .
So I got to it last weekend


https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/248.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/490.jpg

[rar110]

I have the Rice Bubbles template if you want it?

Mate of mine wants one now as well, so I'll make him one then post it if you like


that would be great. I like the way it fixes to the bottom switch panel without cutting the lower dash.

[Jock The Rock]

that would be great. I like the way it fixes to the bottom switch panel without cutting the lower dash.

No worries

Yeh I wasn't keen on cutting my dash up either

It may be a while but when I have mine all fitted in and together I'll grab your postage details off you. I might suggest modifying the mounts though I could have buggered up there :(

[Jock The Rock]

Well I picked it up from the Powder Coaters today, dropped in to get some stainless screws and got stuck into it :)

When I cut my CD player hole out; I cut it too close to the side making it quite difficult to put a screw through the side mount. So instead I had a look in my leather working gear and hey presto... it is now attached on with snaps :D

Heres the pics:

Side plates in, after a lot of hassle :(
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/150.jpg

Console in
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/243.jpg

The bit I'm a bit disappointed with, I'll have to cut a spacer out to fill in the recess so you can't see the screw threads
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/151.jpg

All in with the UHF repositioned down near the fuse box
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/06/152.jpg

[alexturner]

Hey!

I'm thinking about getting one of these MUD consoles, as I intend on running my 200TDI on WVO (Canola oil) and a few extra gauges (pump pressures and temperatures) would be really handy :P

To the guys who made their own, what did you use to cut the metal? I would of thought a dremel? And where are the nice switches coming from?

Alex

[Jock The Rock]

Hey mate

I just used a jigsaw with a metal cutting blade, then filed to fit

[rar110]

Here is my Jock inspired console

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2011/04/1032.jpg