AntonRx Posted October 14, 2019 Report Share Posted October 14, 2019 I am in the process of getting a new Fusion unit for audio and 9" touchscreen Garmin. I have seen how people use an acrylic panel /starboard to put over the old existing console face. I would like to do this with black acrylic. I've found places online that will custom cut panels but only in square shapes. As you all know, our console tapers in slightly towards the top where the windshield recess is at. I'd like to follow that line. Is there anyone that has done this or knows where to get it done online? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
smilemaker Posted October 14, 2019 Report Share Posted October 14, 2019 It is not hard to cut acrylic. It should have contact paper on each side. A table saw makes it easier but a good circular will work. If using a jig saw use a fine tooth blade. Go slow and support the acrylic at all times. If the cut off piece dangles down it may cause it to crack. When drilling holes always use a pilot hole and step up diameter in incriments Here is pictures of my helm that I am working on. Still a little to do but it is fishable. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AntonRx Posted October 15, 2019 Author Report Share Posted October 15, 2019 Nice man! I think I'm ok on making the straight cuts. Where my issue is, would be making a slight radius/inside corner to follow the contour of the console. Anyone use a router bit? If so, what type? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
smilemaker Posted October 15, 2019 Report Share Posted October 15, 2019 A router works well. You can buy router bits made to cut acrylic and other plastics. If you make a pattern out of plywood the you can use a router bit made with a bearing to follow the pattern. For cutting out the inside for the display the pattern they provide tells you the size of the hole saw to get the proper radius. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nail-em Posted October 15, 2019 Report Share Posted October 15, 2019 After cutting and light sanding the edges you can take a heat gun and go over the edges to make them smooth as glass. I would do a little practice on the cutoff piece first and start with low heat, also leave the protective film on the acrylic the entire time you are working with it. Andy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fin-addict Posted October 15, 2019 Report Share Posted October 15, 2019 Interesting console. Would like to see full pictures of it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Waterman18 Posted October 15, 2019 Report Share Posted October 15, 2019 Check out this product , ABS plastic with printed pattern https://shop.decorativeplasticsheets.com/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
smilemaker Posted October 15, 2019 Report Share Posted October 15, 2019 One if the downfalls of ordering online sheet goods is the shipping. Often a good sign shop will have cut offs that will work and if you need a full sheet they will order it for you and put it with theirs for shipping. My console is a work in progress. Next is to change the switch panel from rockers to toggles. I don't like two way switches such that one function is off to get another to be on. One function one switch. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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