Under dash storage shelf

David in San Antonio said:
McGarret - How is it attached?
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David,
See photo below...I used a couple of nylon wire clamps and used the inside screws of the junction box (I break out in a cold sweat if I have to drill holes in original sheet metal!). At the other end, I made a narrow sheet aluminum strap clamp and 2 small machine screws & nuts to go over the top wire of the basket and the fuel line. Using those mounting points I didn't have to drill or damage anything.
 

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Synchro909 said:
I don't think a shelf would be too difficult to make. I imagine it attaching to the side panel in front of the door on passenger side. the firewall and the tunnel under the fuel tank where the wires and speedo cable go.
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Synchro,
You and I seem to have the same vision of it (scarry! :eek:). I'm now thinking that the shelf might need to be made in 2 pieces, left & right in order to clear the steering column and other practical reasons. I'll keep working on it and see if something worthwhile develops.
 
Thought I would post an update to my idea of under dash storage for my Roadster. The photos below are of the second generation - I decided I didn't like my first attempt with the wire basket.

It isn't a shelf per se, but considering the clearance problems with the steering column, GAV rod, fuel valve, and handbrake I came up with this idea. The natural upsweep of the fuel tank at each end seemed to make a natural place to use for some kind of storage. Hobby Lobby had these 7" x 9" plastic baskets for $3.00 each, so I modified them to fit at a slight angle, but they nestled in place fairly nicely and the best part is, I didn't have to drill any holes! Also, no problems entering or exiting - they are up high and out of the way and don't intrude into precious knee and leg room.

Not as snazzy as the shelf I had envisioned, but the baskets offer quite a bit of storage for loose items and they don't look too bad either. I'll admit that wicker, cane, or bamboo baskets would be my preference over plastic, but I'll keep looking for something along those lines while using these.
 

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Bruce of MN said:
I can't figure out how they are supported, can you describe?
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For the sides where they fit flush to the kick panels, I made small clamps from sheet aluminum and used the upper kick panel mounting screws to hold them (no drilling). I used zip ties around the steering column and GAV rod bracket to hold the front corners. I had to cut a slot in the basket on the passenger side to allow clearance for the fuel line which made it self-supporting at that end. I used black zip ties so it's hard to see them. Once mounted, they felt very sturdy.
 
Nicely done. I was trying to come up with something for storage under there as there is a lot of space to utilize but didn't have the time before a big trip. I did get a cup holder/storage for the floor, didn't fasten it so I can take it out easily if I want, and for the back got a similar thing from Wally world.
 

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2Speed,
I like the "console" idea with shelves and plugs for charging phones, etc. Maybe your idea could be developed further. I know there are a few storage consoles with drink holders available from some of the vendors, but like you, I wanted something that would best utilize the available space under the dash.
 
I have a two pole plug that comes directly from the battery, fused that goes into an RV USB panel I got off Ebay. The wire comes out by the ebrake handle, and I can unplug and remove the console. Voltmeter, Power plug, USB charging, and a switch. The switch broke, and the USB charging is intermittment with 6 volts. I've bought a different USB charging board, but have yet to install and test it out.


Both "consoles" were under $10. I could have made the wooden one, but there are only so many hours in a life.
 
Looks like it could be made pretty easily. I'd try steam bending some 1/2" - 5/8" diameter wood dowel over a form, wrap it in leather and make the netting from wicker or nylon netting.


Regards
Bill
 
BillCNC said:
Looks like it could be made pretty easily. I'd try steam bending some 1/2" - 5/8" diameter wood dowel over a form, wrap it in leather and make the netting from wicker or nylon netting.


Regards
Bill
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That's an excellent idea. I might give that a try. I would prefer an actual basket made from customary basket materials as I mentioned above; it has a more period correct, classy look to it.
 
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