Custom Overhead Console Switch Panels - Updated 6/26/2017 Now availalbe!

I started working on this last month and finally have something worth showing.

@KTJO 4x4 nudged me to do it, and @Jgchfd was kind enough to lend me a spare console for development. Thanks to both of them for helping me make this happen.

The challenge was to add more switches in natural places, the overhead console seems to be under used at times depending on the trim level of truck that you own. So naturally some of us want to make better use of that space and add switches for whatever accessories we want.

The issue is that Toyota does not sell the switch panels, instead you have to purchase a complete console to get the switch panel your looking for. The other issue is that there is no switch panel for the passenger side of the console. This is only used for trucks with sunroof's.

So I set off to reverse engineer the existing panels to accommodate additional switches. While I was in there, I decided to design a complete switch panel that installs within the Sunglasses holder of the console. All together we are looking at a total of (9) small OEM switches in the overhead console with minor modifications.

Now available for purchase through Shapeways

Driverside Switch

Center Switch Panel

Passenger side Switch

Installation Instructions

The hardest part here is going to be adding the passenger side switch (typically reserved for the sunroof). Because of the original design of the console, one will have to cut into the plastic frame behind the console to allow clearance of the switch. Not only that, its impossible to remove the dummy plate without taking the console completely apart.

For those of you wondering about the center console switch panel I've been talking about making for a long time, its still in the works. I decided to use the smaller format OEM switch, which requires me to make some modifications to the design. The small switch is the way to go.

For the overhead console, I have the sizing just about done, just need to add the switch ports and print the prototypes. I'm going to be sending a sample set to @KTJO 4x4 to test out. My overhead console is pretty much all used up from the factory.





The sunglasses holder switch panel is still in the sizing stage. But here you can get an Idea of what to expect. Once installed, the switches can be tucked away by closing the sunglasses holder tray. Unfortunately due to crawl control, I wont be able to use this one in my truck.


I'll be posting updates to this thread as I progress.

Update: 2/6/2017

I've dialed the switch port on one of the panels. Next I'll be transferring it over to the center & passenger side panels.

Also test fitting for the Sunglasses holder switch panel is looking promising. The pic below shows only the center section, but the final design will fill the whole panel.



Below is what you could expect to do to fit and wire additional switches.

I've highlighted the areas of interest.

Red Box: These are the plastic tabs that hold the back and front panels of the console together. These must be snapped or cut off with a dremel. Once complete, you will be able to modify the console to install the passenger side switch (sunroof) or add (5) switches. Once complete, high strength Glue like Goop can be used in these spots to secure front and back panels together.

Orange box: will have to be cut out to allow for clearance of the passenger side switch (sunroof)

Green & Blue Box: Cutting these out will allow you to fit the (5) switch configuration panel.

Blue Circle: Is where I would thread the wiring loom of the switch panel housed in the sunglasses holder.



Update: 2/7/2017

The main panel is almost done, just have to print and do final fitment tests.



Update: 2/13/2017

I took apart the overhead console to finally get a better look inside. Discovered the Sunroof switch port is in fact laid out differently from the rest. So I have to revise the design of the switch panel for the passenger side (sunroof).

Below are some pics of the switch panels mocked up. I will post some closeups of inside the console tonight.




Update: 4/2/2017

Finished in black ABS, will be printing some pieces for @KTJO 4x4 to evaluate this week. Also Putting a list together for those interested in buying.



Update: 5/15/2017

Here is a sample of the switch panels with populated with switches. Will be available for purchase soon.



Update: 6/26/2017

Thank you all for your patience, the moment has arrived.

Click Here for Installation Instructions

Please provide any feedback on the instructions.

Console switches now available for purchase on Shapeways. Links at the top of this thread.

 

I'm super excited! I can't wait. Thanks to @tacitos for making this happen

 

Finally.
I've been checking for this for months:

https://www.shapeways.com/product/87QV69AWS/toyota-tacoma-overhead-switch-panel-2016

 

Why not 3?

 

Yeaaahhh. Sorry about that.
Before I could get to the final revision my computer decided to take a dive in the pool.

But it looks like there's finally a solution!

 

which part of the overhead does this go in?
I have the off road so the locker switch is there. Wondering if this goes to the side of that like where the sunroof controls are if you have said option.

 

Not to step on @tacitos toes here, but it is possible. The only thing about the three switch panel is you will need to cut some of the supporting material in the overhead console itself.

The one on the right

 

@breader3 I do have 3 slots planned, but not everyone is looking for that many nor looking to cut into the console. Those who are willing to cut into the console will have options.

I will be posting some basic instructions on what modifications are involved. For those wanting allot of switches and do not want to cut into the console, the sunglasses holder will be an alternate option.

 

you should fo something with the upfitter switches like on the raptor

 

sub'd

 

subd

 

updated

 

update bump

 

on the main panel will you be offering just the center piece that hold 2 switches?

 

Yes, the main panel will be available in 3 pieces.

Eventually I will offer a single piece that holds 5-6 switches. This single piece will require additional cutting on the console housing.

 

Thank you. I UNLIKED your first post just so I can LIKE it again.

 

Slicker than owl poop.

 

Yo dawg, I heard you like switches.
So I makes switches for your switches while you switch.

But really this is badass.
Material? 3D SLA,? Injection mold?
Too bad I don't have the sunglasses holder, but definitely interested in the other one.