The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Panels 'N Burbs Overhead Console

I have held off putting in my headliner because I think I'd like to put a radio/player overhead to keep things nice and tidy and now would be the time to do it.
I'd like some idea's/opinions on what you burb/panel guys think would be a good one to put up there and from what vehicle. I simply want a radio, C/D player and with it probably a little storage space for sun glasses and such.
Let me know your thoughts...... .and thank you.

can you bend a piece of sheet metal and put it over the windshield and let it go from door to door . then you could put a glove box on one side and the spekers could mount in the bottom. paint or uphoster it to match the interior

I had an old GMC dually that I thought was going to be my RV hauler. It had an oak center overhead that mostly held some after market RV lights that didn't work. I made a new one with some late model Suburban lights, drop down dvd player for the kids, etc.

http://www.bunchobikes.com/gm22.jpg
http://www.bunchobikes.com/gm23.jpg
http://www.bunchobikes.com/gm24.jpg

I'm considering the same idea. Curious to see what other have done.

thanks leonard and mark. I use to do a LOT of woodwork back in the 80/90's. I still have my saws,ect and piddle a little for the grandkids presents. I've thought of building my own but then I figure a good salvage hunt would turn up a nice c/d player/radio and the "box" would come with it. I'm just getting old and slooooow.

Anyone else got any idea's before I "jump". Thanks.

I'm sure almost all the RV vans from the 80's onward have overhead consoles which would be adaptable, and your woodworking skills could be utilized for the fastening points.

You can buy them new also at the Van accessory stores, or from the van conversion suppliers.

Regards, Mark.

My plan is to mount stereo speakers facing down. This way I can still use the vents under the dash.

Mark, thanks for yet another lead. We also have a BIG place in Greenville call LQK that we can walk in for $2 and the prices is cheap. Maybe trip over that way, about 30 miles, is in order if I can ever get the time.

Achipmunk,

Here's what I did on my 51 panel.

The overhead map lights are from an '05 Silverado .. I think the same style was used multiple years ; like 03-07 . The little cubby hole is big enough for a stereo.
I cut the back of it out to route wires for a rear view video screen.
THe lighted visors are 2010 Buick Enclave. These were new in the box sourced from a parts jobber on ebay who deals with NOS overstocks or discontinued styles and colors.... I like a lot of overhead lighting since the interior of a panel is DARK!

mike

http://s1367.photobucket.com/user/Roadmaster75/slideshow/51%20Panel%20interior

Thanks Mike. Another great idea. My seats are from a 03 Silverado but I never even thought to "look up" or look around in the junk yard at the time I was there. Most overheads are grey in color anyway and will match up with my color inside which is also a grey. Thanks for the pictures.

Keep the idea's coming guys until I go see whats out there.... and I'm sure others are "listening to".
Thank You.

Why a console? Why not place the radio out of the way and use the remote? Check out the units made for boat and golfcart use, they are usually compact and durable too.

George, I do mean overhead console, which to me would be out of the way. I also thought about in the glove box but I'm putting A/C in it next spring and will loose some of it....or so it seems.
Great idea though. After you mentioned it I remembered seeing some down at Ocean Lakes at our daughters wedding back in April... but then again, my wife would want the golf cart to go with it. She loves riding those things threw BIG puddles!

Again, thanks for the idea's everyone. I like to "plan" things out..... sometimes!

Alvin, just my 2 cents, but DON'T DO IT! Try this, sit in the driver's seat and have someone hold your radio/CD player where it would go. Can you fiddle with your radio and safely drive? Can you SEE the face of the radio? They make me feel closed in, but that's just me. If all you want is lights, Subaru has a beautiful gismo about the size of a soup bowl that back mounts that contains lights and switches. Sorry to muddy the waters!

Les

....I would use it mainly for C/D. Victoria can find the radio stations
I've been real busy lately and haven't got to look around much. I do understand what your saying though.

Mid 90's Suburbans had nice map lights that were stand-alones.

I think I would make a custom one. Just my opinion but late model stuff just does not look era to me. Plus My old eyes just don't focus fast enough to drive and play with a radio. I've been thinking about something that is out of site and works with a remote control.Maby just a CD slot that is handy.Not sure just throwing it out there

..... I've done a good bit of wood work along thru the years and still have my equipment. I'm thinking I may just make my own box. That way I can blame no one but myself However, right now it will be a winter project!! To much going on right now.

Alvin,

When I had my radio changed over o 12V I had my radio guy add a jack for an I POD (Christmas present). I program the I POD to big band music,put it in the glove compartment and I don't have to take my eyes off the road. The I POD will also pick up FM stations and play them through the AM radio. Just another idea. Hope you and family are well. Still remember the good time I had with you,Ron and Leo at KC 2011.


Weeds

Weeds, you remember Karla for sure. Well, she's my high tech gal when it comes to the IPOD and stuff. I'll get her down here and let her get me up to date. I know she has one to.... and she is always asking how you all are doing. Who knows, we may get back up that way. She is already hollering again "daddy, road trip"