It seems like whenever we build a big audio system, we always end up with small items like switches, bass knobs and displays that need to be mounted somewhere on the dash. Our '07 Toyota Avalon project is no exception. We could just drill a hole somewhere in the dash and bolt them in, but we prefer a cleaner integrated look. We lucked out with the Avalon, since Toyota decided to put a tape deck in a separate compartment in front of the shifter. I haven't dusted off my tape collection in a long time, and a little invention called the iPod means that I may never have to, so the tape player got the boot. The remaining opening was perfect for a few small items that needed a home (see the caption for photo #9), so follow along as we build a custom panel to house them. Send questions to techpanel@sourceinterlink.com with Tricks of the Trade in the subject line, and check out stevebrownuniversity.com.
A remote radar detector display, a navigation voice speaker, a navigation audio level control and a subwoofer level control are going to be mounted on the panel.
The flip-up panel in front of the shifter in the '07 Toyota Avalon matches the cosmetic treatment on the rest of the dash.
Unscrew the shift knob and lift around the cup holder area to remove the panel. Unplug the factory tape player and take the panel out of the car.
We need to make a panel to hold our accessories and 11/48" ABS plastic works perfectly for this purpose.
A single screw on each side panel holds the switch panel in place and allows for easy removal.
Use masking tape to mark the rectangular hole for the radar detector display.