330 Express Custom Gauge Panel.

[Automated14]

Well… it’s not a gauge panel anymore

I made a replacement gauge panel for my ‘04 330 express. The original was tired and recently became empty after repowering. I bought a 12”x48” sheet of black acrylic for $35.00. I’m not sure where I got the chrome GW emblem

my friend and I cut it with an oscillating tool but a jigsaw with a fine blade would have worked. The finishing touch was sanding the cut edge. The original plan was to add cubbies on either side but now that it’s in I like the clean look. I’m also changing the mounting screws.

 

[kirk a]

Looks good, and I'm not a fan of shiny acrylic. I'll likely be facing the same issue in near future, so paying attention to my options for this space. Thanks for sharing.

 

[Automated14]

Looks good, and I'm not a fan of shiny acrylic. I'll likely be facing the same issue in near future, so paying attention to my options for this space. Thanks for sharing.

I like the way it looks...but I'm worried about maintaining this. I had considered starboard for a flat finish. It may come to that if this one is blinding me for some reason. Just completed it yesterday so i haven't used the boat yet.

To anyone with an earlier 330 express: this opening is very forgiving. it's recessed so your edges of anything custom don't need to be absolutely perfect.

 

[SkunkBoat]

you can get ABS sheet in a variety of patterns and finishes. Probably better for that application.
Its easier to work with than acrylic. It won't crack at holes.

 

[SkunkBoat]

oh, its even more confusing. There is acrylic(plexiglass), polycarbonate(Lexan), ABS, HDPE(Starboard), LDPE, PVC.....

 

[Automated14]

you can get ABS sheet in a variety of patterns and finishes. Probably better for that application.
Its easier to work with than acrylic. It won't crack at holes.

Funny you mention that. I ordered this sheet off Amazon and went back and checked my order. I don't know if this makes a difference but this stuff is black plexiglass... sorry for the confusion. Potato PotAto? I don't know plastics lol

 

[Automated14]

oh, its even more confusing. There is acrylic(plexiglass), polycarbonate(Lexan), ABS, HDPE(Starboard), LDPE, PVC.....

omg make the voices stop! yes...very confusing.. Well... it's black shiny stuff and I cut it with an oscillating tool, then cleaned up/shaped the edge with sandpaper.

 

[DennisG01]

Looks good! The only problem with it being shiny, that I see, is that you know have to keep the rest of the boat just as shiny.

If you want to knock down the shine a bit... see if you can find a clear spray paint (get one that can be used on plastic... HD and Lowes has it... Rustoleum/Krylone/etc) in a semi-gloss or matte finish. Try it on a scrap piece. Or maybe a black paint in the finish you want... or even a different color?