Couple Cheap Mods

I posted this a few months ago on ToyotaNation.com and I haven't seen it here...Here's a couple cheap mods but both were very useful for me.

First was to install a lock on my center storage compartment. The lock cost me $4.00 at Lowes. The lock works very well for what it's needed for. I go to a casino and they offer free Valet Parking. This will prevent these punks from peaking into my storage compartment to see what they can grab. It's happened before and I lost a few CD's!

On with the pics...

Lock - There was 2 options. 1/2" or 1/4" max thickness. The 1/2" was the perfect size.


The locks requires a 3/4" hole. I first started with a pilot hole all the way up to a 1/2" hole using a drill then did the remainder with a Dremel. Not perfect but the lock fit fine and will be eventually covered with the lock.


Installed the lock using the "bent" latch. Works perfect.




Blurry pic but best I could do...The "bent" latch worked the best.


The latch needs to fit flush against the lip of the storage compartment. Protect your hand sanitizer and lube!


So I did this back in April and have actually used the lock several times. It is holding up very well and still works perfect.

 

The next mod cost me nothing except the time to find it around my house.

For those of you who have young kids can proabably agree the rear center seatbelt needs a button to hold up the buckle. My son is in a booster and always sits in the middle. The buckle tends to fall down into the seat so I always have to dig down to grab it and is annoying when I am on the driver's side and it's pouring down rain on me...This "free" mod will save a lot of time and frustration when buckling up your kiddos.

Before: The buckle creeping down to hide inbetween the seats.


Used my Home-Econ skills from Jr. High and installed the beloved BUTTON! Be careful with the needle. I wore gloves and a welders mask for 100% safety.


Aw, the finished product. Works like a charm!


Hope this thread helps out others...I know these are very cheap and probably useless mods for others but for me these are both very useful and were CHEAP!

 

Cool mods ilovetacos!

 

Nice mod. Thanks for sharing. Rep

 

Nice mods man!

 

the lock is great idea.... Could you please List the centering measurements for the hole....preferably from the top and front

 

I like that lock mod. Very nice and useful.

 

Great mods man, I love it, thanks for sharing...

 

Awesome ideas. Thanks for sharing. Rep added

 

errr

 

Sure, I'll get some tomorrow but keep in mind I would try and measure yourself because the lock you get may be different than mine and once you start drilling there is no turning back.

You're welcome!
I did this almost a year ago and the lock is still holding up! I have actually used it a lot more than I originally thought.

 

The lock does work as well as you say! I just followed your steps and now it's secure. I did have to trim the latch on the top piece that latches to the bottom as well but that was about it. Thanks!!

 

I'll have to try out the lock, great idea!

 

Now your all of your gum is safe!

 

Shoot, they can get the gum but I got about $4 of change in the other container


Thanks for the rep whoever it was!

 

Niice! I'm definitely doing this to my center console. You should do a write up on the glove box now! xD

 

will this work for a 2010? how exactly is this locking? What is it latching too to keep the console from opening?

 

""First was to install a lock on my center storage compartment. The lock cost me $4.00 at Lowes. The lock works very well for what it's needed for. I go to a casino and they offer free Valet Parking. This will prevent these punks from peaking into my storage compartment to see what they can grab. It's happened before and I lost a few CD's!""

Good Job, but locks only keep honest people out, VALET PARKING AT A CASINO!!!!!!!! ARE YOU ON DRUGS??????????????, Valet parking anywhere is a gamble, but at a CASINO!!! the storage compartment is the least of your worries.. Doc

 

Can someone explain this mod a little better. I want to do this but unsure on what exactly the latch is holding against to keep the console from opening.

Help please!!