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tadams72 · 05-14-2021, 08:25 AM

So I finished my first attempt at replacing the cracked dash panels in our 94 Affinity. I started with the radio and backup camera panel first since it was pretty bad and I planned to install a new radio anyhow. This panel was made with ¼” acrylic and a carbon fiber adhesive backed overlay. It turned out ok. Had a little mishap with the laser so I ended up with a cut I did not want which created a bubble in the overlay.

I also discovered there is no easy way to tie the existing Sony Camera into the new Alpine head unit due to the “mirroring” characteristic of older cameras. So I think I might make another panel to put the old monitor back in for now. Or try to find a new wireless camera that is an easy install and compatible.

As for the stereo, I purchased an Alpine ilx-w650 digital media receiver, Alpine KTA-450 amplifier, and Alpine e-series 6.5” speakers for the new system. Now I have Apple CarPlay, built in navigation, and built in Bluetooth calling among other perks. Much improved over the old system. When I took the Panasonic speakers out of the overhead they literally began to crumble as I handled them so it was past time.

Overall though, I think the carbon fiber look is pretty good and not too obnoxious so I think I will stick with that theme. Next trick is to figure out how to cut all the labels for backlit switches/knobs/etc.

Trekgrr · 05-14-2021, 07:10 PM

I did our last coach and brushed aluminum on the dash panels and used black unclear label there for the labels.

Click image for larger version

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dfuelman · 05-16-2021, 08:31 AM

Very nice work. One of my next projects (will likely be next season now) will be to upgrade the stereo and electronics in my coach. The back up camera did not work when I purchased and I managed to lock myself out of the stereo, which only worked so good when it did work so it's time for it all to go away.