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Old Bastard !
Joined: Fri Dec 22nd, 2017
Location: California USA
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The old Expo console I have would require a custom fabricated fiberglass top cover made to accommodate the shifter and trim bezel. After some rather crude mock-up, I think it would, quite bluntly, look like . Hence, the search for a usable console that already has a floor shift.
I understand where you are coming from.
Instead of Fiberglass, what aobu aluminum, there is smooth fish and there is diamond plate, and then the smooth can be prepped in a number of ways and designs.
I use aluminum for a lot of stuff, I made a complete Dash for my '82 Scrambler, then added inserts for gauges and radio, on this Ranger I will be building a Panel for switches and USB/Data Connectors, it will be mounted under the HVAC Bezel.
It is very versatile material, easily cut and filed or ground to fit and aluminum will take paint, or an oxide finish very well; I like to take a belt sander to the surface and keep it grinding in the same direction creating a flow to the look of matted aluminum.
All kinds of things you can do, there is also S/S panels.I find a lot of pieces of aluminum at the local recycling center.
OK talking too much, but I would think about reworking what you have before considering moving and fitting a new console that only just fits.
Done !
____________________
Ltr,
2003 EDGE, Std Cab, Steppie, E4 Red, 5sp, 4x
5" SuperLift, 33" x 12.50 x 15"
Hurst Shifter
Mod'd Backrack to fit Steppie
Front and Rear Bumpers by Custom 4x4 Fabrication, OK; now Mike's Welding and Fabrication.
Working on more Mods, just need more time, longer days would work !