My car plans.

[nugz]

Ok so I been thinking about getting off my ass and doing some work to the Balt.

1: Paint entire center console.
2: Replace parking brake cover with shift knob and boot.
3: Illuminate gauge cluster with blue lights.
4: Replace carpet with black carpet.

I have a few questions about some of the things...

I know that the paint on the console will get scratched so I plan on clear coating it, but where can I find a low to no gloss clear coat? I don't want it shiny.


Are there any parking brake knobs that will fit without modifying the parking brake lever?

[dduffy2005]

Are you going to change the actual lights in the cluster? if so let me know what type and size lights you buy. I'm going to do the same thing but it's on hold until I get all my upolstery done. I just got my new cluster today! when I was looking into it I saw a site called SUPER BRIGHT LEDS homethat had a good selection but since I've taken the bulbs out I haven't had time to check.

[nugz]

I was planning on installing LED strips under the gauges to illuminate onto the gauges...I don't want to mess with the lights cause I don't feel like buying a new gauge cluster...lol

[dduffy2005]

You mean like I had too? haha. I have an idea like that but it involves etching the plastic cover with costum lettering and then putting leds into the plastic and it would light up the lettering.

[nugz]

Do you have a Pep Boys near you?...They have light strips that are hella bright that I will use, if you can stop by there and check out the light stuff they have...awesome stuff.

[cpik]

Use SEM spray dye for the console I used it on my door panels in my old alero, held up really well, i don't even know if they make a topcoat, its a dye so there is no glossy or dull, looks like the plastic was always that color

only asking since all the old posts are gone:
Duffy where did you get your gauge cluster? I want to change the lighting as well

Krylon | Krylon® Acrylic Crystal Clear

[Atreya]

I used that krylon fusion across the whole dash, just cleaned it, no primer or sanding, about 3 coats and let it dry. was 6 months ago roughly and not a scratch or wear mark yet. used it on door panels as well and paint seems to be holding up fine.

[dduffy2005]

Originally Posted by cpik

Use SEM spray dye for the console I used it on my door panels in my old alero, held up really well, i don't even know if they make a topcoat, its a dye so there is no glossy or dull, looks like the plastic was always that color

only asking since all the old posts are gone:
Duffy where did you get your gauge cluster? I want to change the lighting as well

ebay. It's just a stock one. I'm going to do all the work it then put it in the car when I'm done

[nugz]

One more thing, does the console around the auto shifter just pop off like everything else? I tried the other day and it didn't budge.