Hey gang, I've been tied up with college so I haven't had much time to work on my 4runner, but taking the bus to school gives me time to think, and I came up with something that at least I find interesting and I'd like to gauge some interest on it.
I have a double din stereo like some do, but with that I can't use a din to mount any switches, sure I could mount some at the bottom of the dash console or in the small panel in the center console, but I use both of those. That got me to thinking about where else in the interior buttons could be mounted...
As I'm sure you all know, on our 4runners there are four button panels and a larger square one to the left of the steering wheel, but with a locker, security, ecu and back window switch, that leaves them all filled up. (Unless you've got a 99+)
So, I got to thinking and came up with an idea that I *hope* could be helpful to someone out there, and that's this:
This (in theory) will replace the old fuse panel cover under those switches and can give you six new places for them while still keeping the same functionality and keeping it easy to remove. I used OEM size as I like those the most but I suppose you could use whatever you'd like.
As this is a prototype and I can't get my first one printed until likely monday, It isn't (and likely might not be) finished for a few weeks.
The main problem I can see is with wiring but I've come up with an idea to take care of both that and being able to still have the fuse diagram that normally is on the back, which I will add in at a later date as right now I'm just making sure all the dimensions are right.
Is anyone interested in this? I'm considering maybe selling the STL file or selling complete 3D printed ones to help me pay for some of my tuition (but without costing an arm and a leg, I'm not THAT evil)
Also looking for some feedback for possible changes, and I suppose if someone wanted button orientations could be swapped or other things could be added.
And if not, I guess it's just another idea that maybe someone could find helpful in the future.
Thanks!
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1998 4Runner Limited 4WD w/Rear Locker
281k Miles
Build Thread
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