Accessory Switches
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More Turbo
Joined: Aug 2017
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From: NJ
Accessory Switches
I want to install a accessory fuse box and relays under the hood for some lighting. My question is where should I mount all the switched in the cab where I would not need to cut into my dash, but still be easy to reach. I have on my other truck for the fog lights just a switch under my ignition switch, but I have to lean over to use it while driving. Not fond of that. I was thinking of making some overhead console for them, but wanted to see if anyone here had a better idea.
Thanks
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Senior User
Joined: Oct 2017
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From: british columbia, canada
You need to find a spot where you don,t have to go looking for it while you are driving and texting. No seriously tho. How about a pillar pod, I,m pretty sure something is out there. How many switchs are you thinking?
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More Turbo
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From: NJ
I thought about both the ash tray and the A pillar. I use the slide in cup holder for the ash tray, so that is out. The A pillar is a good idea, I see stuff for newer trucks but nothing for Dents. I saw on another forum someone used a ford overhead console that looked pretty cool, even has three gauge cut outs. Part number is BC4Z-70519A70-B. I think I might try to find one of these. Just would need to figure out a mounting solution.
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Joined: Aug 2017
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From: NJ
I would have used that spot but i have the a/c vent there. That seems like the best spot, wish i could find a way to put a shorter vent in that spot and put the switches under it. I only need a couple.
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Fleet Owner
Joined: Dec 2009
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From: NorCal
I'd fab up a simple panel and mount it above the rear view mirror.... fish the wires up the A-pillar and along the front edge of the windshield/headliner.
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From: S/W Missouri, Polk county
Fish tape the wiring up the A pillar and come up with a mini switch panel right in the corner of the cab by the visor mount area.
Mount them on the steering column by the tach, maybe on the t/s stalk like aftermarket cruise control. Do you have duel tanks? If not, what about to the right of the environmental control panel L/R slide bars. Like where the duel tank switch is? Any room in the steering column slip on metal cover like HIO has? If you have the metal one?
FYI anything hanging down on the lower part of the dash (from e brake release T handle and moving right...will stab a shin every time you get in in a hurry.
HIO to help ID and find your #1 important switch in the dark, (if they are not back lit) put a piece of surgical tubing with a 1/4" of over hang from the end of the switch. Makes for very easy to hand locate in the dark and not throw the switch. Old fly a helo in the dark (pre NVG's) control panel trick.
Mount them on the steering column by the tach, maybe on the t/s stalk like aftermarket cruise control. Do you have duel tanks? If not, what about to the right of the environmental control panel L/R slide bars. Like where the duel tank switch is? Any room in the steering column slip on metal cover like HIO has? If you have the metal one?
FYI anything hanging down on the lower part of the dash (from e brake release T handle and moving right...will stab a shin every time you get in in a hurry.
HIO to help ID and find your #1 important switch in the dark, (if they are not back lit) put a piece of surgical tubing with a 1/4" of over hang from the end of the switch. Makes for very easy to hand locate in the dark and not throw the switch. Old fly a helo in the dark (pre NVG's) control panel trick.
Mountain Pass
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From: Maysville, Ky
Mark.
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Joined: Aug 2017
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From: NJ
Good suggestions, I like the foot dimmer idea for the bumper LED's. I think I will fab up a panel for either the center or over the visor like 77&79F250 suggested. I will use back lit switches so I can see them in the dark. Once I come up with a plan I will post the progress.
Thanks Guys, This forum ROCKS!!!! everyone is always willing share their thoughts. Gives you ideas and fills you in on errors they have made that you otherwise would never think of.
Thanks Guys, This forum ROCKS!!!! everyone is always willing share their thoughts. Gives you ideas and fills you in on errors they have made that you otherwise would never think of.
Freshman User
Joined: Sep 2017
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From: Francis
I thought about both the ash tray and the A pillar. I use the slide in cup holder for the ash tray, so that is out. The A pillar is a good idea, I see stuff for newer trucks but nothing for Dents. I saw on another forum someone used a ford overhead console that looked pretty cool, even has three gauge cut outs. Part number is BC4Z-70519A70-B. I think I might try to find one of these. Just would need to figure out a mounting solution.
Part number is good. He said, 'it's a build for Ford piece'. Available in 2-3weeks after ordering. He didn't have a listing that showed what this piece was made for, so we're guessing it's an aftermarket accessory that customer is supposed to retro fit into whatever vehicle they want it in. Finding one at a wrecker would be just pure fluke. $155 Canadian, plus shipping. Not too bad in my opinion. For my southern neighbors, probably quite a bit cheaper! Lol.
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From: NJ
Yeah, I couldn't find it anywhere except Ford Parts sites, and could not find a vehicle that it was an OE item for. See them on sites down here for around $75.00. Thought they might have been made be for like an L8000 or a Wrecker. Not sure if I want to go that route yet, but it all depends on my skill is when I try to make something.
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