early Plus 2 console lid

Post by: **bill griffiths** » Wed Aug 28, 2019 3:48 am

I have just received a new early Plus 2 centre console after a wait of about 35 years.
It is perfect! Made by Frank in Atlanta.
Now only lacking the "lid"!
Nothing can go under it except a piece of paper or may be a bank note!
It is trimmed in basker weave and has, I think, an aluminium
bottom.
I would be most grateful if someone would let me have the exact dimensions,
construction details and hinge arrangement.
Then all I will need is the original basket weave trim for the top of the lid. There are several
similar styles but I am yet to find the exact one. Can't sully the new console with
the wrong basket weave when the basket weave panels in the seats are so close!
I will attach a photo of an original seat panel; I have never known whether the little "holes"
are just in need of a good clean or whether they actually are a lighter colour!
Regards,
Bill

Post by: **wotsisname** » Wed Aug 28, 2019 12:32 pm

a good clean required ! and plenty of room for an OS map and probably a packet of JPS
unfortunately mine is buried where I can't get to it for a few weeks... if no joy before then, I'll be happy to take photos/measurements.
i don't envy you the cutting job.

Post by: **stugilmour** » Wed Aug 28, 2019 4:32 pm

Lid is made from a 19 5/8? x 4 7/8? metal plate.
Plate thickness approximately 1/16?; hard to measure.
Top of lid with upholstery rolled under thin foam is 20 1/8? x 5 1/8?.
Upholstery & foam approximately 1/2? thick.
Several countersunk Phillips screws to attach foam & upholstery. Maybe fibreboard base for foam?
Catch is magnet mounted on the console.
Small steel pad riveted to metal plate for magnetic catch.
Wide single hinge as shown.

Let me know if more photos required. I see a few of them could be better.

Note lid becomes really delicate to open because the weight of the lid puts a lot of strain on the hinge attachment area. Might want to reinforce this area from the back side. Just spitballing, but perhaps an H shaped piece on the bottom side of the console would prevent cracking that wonderful new console? I can?t recall what I did to strengthen this area, but will probably have the console removed shortly and can see.

Stu