Part 9: Console Design
March 28, 2015
One of the projects for the red Corvair is to build a new console. Originally I was going to use one of the ones you can get through the vendors (I have two of them) but I don't care for the overall quality of those consoles and they don't have a factory look. I would like to build a console that looks similar to the '67 Impala 4-speed console, with some Corvair touches, made to fit our cars. The process begins with using some styrofoam to start making a mock-up of the console. Eventually I will make a plug so that I can make a fiberglass mold. The console will then be a two piece assembly made out of fiberglass with various metal trim, covered in matching vinyl. This will take a long time, so don't expect to see lots of progress fast.
This is the '67 Impala console that will loosely inspire my console.
I laid out my design on a piece of styrofoam. I'm using my '63 Olds work table for the project.
Although I'm building this for the coupe, the passenger seat is out of that car, so I am test fitting in the convertible. I like it enough that I will probably make one for this car as well.
The two parallel rectangles will be holes for the seat belt buckles to rest in when not in use. Forward of that is a door that will cover some audio controls. The edges will be chrome while the interior parts will be painted in black wrinkle paint to match the dash.
I am currently thinking of attaching a Corsa emblem used on the side of the car to the far front of the console.
The hole for the shifter needs to move to the left about an inch, I think.
