Mounting a center console

[Deuce4dad]

I need some help on mounting my center console in a 32 Ford. There is no insulation, padding, or carpet in place. Should I fabricate mounting brackets that bolt or weld to the trans tunnel and floor pan then bolt the console to them after carpet is in place, or fab brackets that attach to the console and mount the console after carpet is in place. I would like to mount it now, but might not have enough adjustment in the brackets to close up the gaps between carpet, firewall and console if I do. I'm not sure how much gap I would need to allow for padding and carpet. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Happy New Year.

[firebird77clone]

Give a half inch gap, and slot the holes about a half inch.

[34_40]

Go ahead and mount it now, then after the carpet is in adjust as needed.

[rspears]

Kind of hard to say without knowing how your console is built or seeing pictures, but you'll want your mounts to be hidden once the carpet is in, right? I would think that mounting upright tabs on the tunnel & hump with tapped holes would let you bolt in from the lower edge of the console sides, nothing showing but a small bolt/screw head. Lots easier if you're not having to get to the inside for washers & nuts unless the top of the console comes off for easy access. If the top is removable I'd put nut-serts in the floor, tabs on the bottom of the console and all you'll need to account for padding & carpet is maybe a longer bolt, assuming you carpet under the console edge. I'd do it now rather than fabricating on new carpeting.

[Deuce4dad]

Sorry I don't have pictures. The console is made of 5/8" medium density fiberboard, with the top pieces to be held in with magnets. All pieces will be upholstered with vinyl. I plan to use brass 1/4" wood inserts to bolt the mounting brackets in from the inside of the side panels. I had not thought to use nut-serts in the trans tunnel. Don't have a tool for them, but may be able to borrow one. They would make mounting the console a lot easier. I have so many hours in this console build that I am embarrassed. The help you guys have given is much appreciated. Maybe I can find a way to post photos later on. Thanks

[34_40]

You can "make" a cruse nut-sert tool with a simple bolt and spacer. Might seem crude but can be effective. BTDT..

[Deuce4dad]

I will try that. Thanks

[TooMany2count]

You can "make" a cruse nut-sert tool with a simple bolt and spacer. Might seem crude but can be effective. BTDT..

Like this one..
https://youtu.be/3I2RlUwufxc

[rspears]

Like this one..
https://youtu.be/3I2RlUwufxc

That guy's method relies on the friction fit of the nut-sert in the metal hole to work, because the "oversized nut" spins freely on the bolt. That can be a real problem in softer materials like fiberglass. Try this one instead - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heLMQYwE1_o

[34_40]

I have used both methods and Roger is right, in plastic or fiberglass you need to get the rivet to expand and not place stress ( or keep it to a minimum) on the surrounding material and give the rivet time to set into place and make a good "hold" . Plus the bolt with the nut working to pull in the rivet is so much easier to "un-do" or release.. BTDT.

[Deuce4dad]

Great info! I couldn't find the nut-serts locally, so I ordered some from ebay seller. Hope these will be okay. Got 1/4" and 5/16" sizes. Thanks again for taking the time to reply. You have been very helpful. I have to take the time to figure out how to post a photo. Lol.

[Deuce4dad]

Just wanted to let you know that I have mounted the console with the nut inserts. These worked great! I gave myself a 3/8" gap to start with and have made the mounting brackets where they could be shimmed underneath them. I am very satisfied with the install and want to thank all of you for the help. Thanks so much.