Anybody ever built a homemade/custom console?

[elite51203]

I'm looking locally for a new or used console that fits my needs but I am not having much luck finding one....I am contemplating on building my own.

Has anyone ever done this?  Im trying to figure the cost difference and whether or not its even worth it to build one.

[seabob4]

Jay, if you haven't gone over to MCL in Ft. Pierce, you need to.  They have a TON of consoles, gotta have something you're looking for.  If you've looked at Don's, don't waste your time...

[Callyb]

Do it. It's not a big deal... what materials are you planning on using?

Bob, got a rigging question on my thread when you have the chance to look at it.

[seabob4]

Yes, Carl...

[CLM65]

I contemplated building my own, but ended up ordering one last week from Panga Marine.  I'm sure building one would have been a bit cheaper, but everything I've built so far has required a bit of...rework.  So I figured I would save myself the hassle and not risk screwing it up.

BTW, I went to MCL last month with a console in mind.  I left disappointed.  Same thing when I went there last July.  Their selection is OK, especially if you have a bigger boat and could handle a wider console.  But I wanted to keep it below 30", and they didn't have much in that category.  Luckily I was visiting family on the east coast, so it wasn't too far out of my way.

[elite51203]

Jay, if you haven't gone over to MCL in Ft. Pierce, you need to.  They have a TON of consoles, gotta have something you're looking for.  If you've looked at Don's, don't waste your time...

I haven't heard of MCL or Dons...I'll have to check them out.

My boat isnt very wide, so I'm thinking something in the <36" range.

[elite51203]

Do it. It's not a big deal... what materials are you planning on using?

Bob, got a rigging question on my thread when you have the chance to look at it.

I would probably use a light plywood and fiberglass.  I can work with wood easily, but I'm a newbie with composites.

[elite51203]

MCL....may check that out this weekend  

[seabob4]

MCL....may check that out this weekend  

Road trip!

[gman 82 aquasport]

If you find one with the general shape you like you can always cut it down to fit your needs. Not as hard as a new build but would serve the purpose

[seabob4]

Garry is right.  Little too wide?  Cut it in half, cut out 3 or 4 inches, glass the halves back together...

[Spot]

I bought one of the C&M 24"x24" x48" tall consoles to use with a 222 and tower. After looking around I found a used pathfinder console that I cut the rod holders off of and glassed the sides in order to fit in my tower. It took a little work. used 1/4 PVC board with 1708 skins. Looks like it was meant for the tower. I have about $200 in the used console + materials but have several hours of labor so if you can find what you are looking for you are likely better off buying it.

On a side note I still have the C&M console with no cut outs in new condition that I will be posting on craigslist when I'm done building for $250. Like I said, if the size works then it is cheaper than modifying one (and cheaper than new - $500 at C&M). PM if you want pictures. I'm in Stuart so keep that in mind when you are figuring costs.

Spot