>Two knob radios were ok as a long reach, and out of front sight
>line. But digital mumbojumbo written in microscopic type and too
>many options, makes modern radios a hazzard. And all the more so
>with the long reach in our vehicles. I solved it with a remote
>controlled unit. Is good from back too, and the IR even goes through
>my curtain.
>  But a console that brought the radio more comfortably to the driver
>would be good.
>   Cup holders yes. Spill protection by design yes. Multiple glasses
>holders (felted?) yes. Cd/tapes holder (say 5). Relativly hidden
>checkbookj/wallet holder. Toll holder. Tire gauge and pen holes.

>Actually, the only thing I like about my Toyota Echo (other than the gas
>mileage) is the center mounted instrument cluster. For once the wheel isn't
>blocking my view of the speedo and gauges. And I can still see the road
>quite clearly while glancing at them.

I can't stand the Yaris (=Echo) design, and it's echoed in the FWD
Estima (=Previa) too... it doesn't at all fitr in with Toyota's
otherwise superior quality.

>I agree that down would be bad though.

It is! This is why I hate stereos set in center consoles.

>I agree...if it's more than a foot or so below my normal line of
>sight I'm not going to be able to look at it often enough to be
>useful.
>
>I fiddled around for a while and decided the ideal location for
>gauges on my Vanagon was on top of the instrument cluster cover.  I
>used a multi-pin connector to hook up the gauges so I can still
>remove the cover completely if I want to.  The Vanagon has a low
>enough dash that the gauges don't block my view at all.

I have thought of this. For the tall it would be fine but it could be
visibility-limiting for shortstuffs. I have thought of making a
fiberglass full-width dashtop extension with room for a hidden
headunit and two dust-tight gloveboxes (no cupholders, note!). It
could fit flush with the existing binnacle cover or replace it; if
the latter, it could include room for gauges right by the existing
gauges. Maybe some day I'll even do it.

>A center console might be an OK spot for gauges you don't have to
>look at often, or only will be looking at while stopped.  In campers
>you could put a voltmeter for your auxiliary battery there, for
>example.

--
Andrew Grebneff
Dunedin, New Zealand
64 (3) 473-8863
<andrew.grebneff@stonebow.otago.ac.nz>
Fossil preparator
Seashell, Macintosh & VW/Toyota van nut