How Tos & Tutorials

How to Make a Custom Switch Panel

How do you make your own switch panel?

In this article, we’ll teach you how to make one so you’ll be able to have full control over your rig’s lighting features without letting go of their significant functions.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A CUSTOM SWITCH PANEL?

switch panel 2

A switch panel is a special device that acts as a “command center” composed of various circuits that you can operate to maximize your 4×4’s usefulness. It’s normally composed of 6 ports and usually of plastic material, with a 1-year warranty.

WHAT ARE THE DIMENSIONS OF A CUSTOM SWITCH PANEL?

The standard dimensions of a custom switch panel is around 3.5 (L) x 2.5 (W) x 3.0 (H). This is because it resembles a small circuit board where electricity flows through to supply power to the needed parts.

WHAT IS THE IP RATING OF A CUSTOM SWITCH PANEL?

ip rating of custom switch panel

The IP rating of custom switch panels usually falls under IP67. 6 means dust won’t be able to penetrate it and 7 means it can repel water of about 1m from an immersion test that lasts for 30 minutes.

HOW DO YOU DESIGN A CUSTOM SWITCH PANEL?

Designing a custom switch panel requires effort and concentration but you’ll get by when you strictly observe the following.

Select a Switch Pod

switch pod

The switch pod is where you put all the buttons or switches to make the switch panel itself work. You may buy it and your panel switches online or in your trusted store, depending on your preferences. Take note, some custom switch panels have a universal design. Meaning, they still have to be tailored for compatibility.

However, if you want to do something that’s made from scratch, you could make a few minor modifications to your factory switch panel including applying a fresh coat of paint, here.

Slide the Separate Switch Pod Parts Together

switch pod parts

Find the dovetail joints that connect the switch pods and carefully slide them in place. For the panel switches, just insert them into their respective slots. You’ll know if you’ve put them in the right slots if you hear a clicking or snapping sound.

Connect the Wires to the Corresponding Panel Switches

switch circuit diagram

Pay close attention to the wires because their colors and signs indicate their purposes and where they have to be attached. They usually depend on the vehicle brand, type, and model that you own. If you’re using a 2017 Toyota 4Runner, your need to familiarize yourself with the diagram above. Check how it’s done when you drop by Wanderlost Overland’s Channel.

Inspect the Wires from the Panel Switches

panel switch wires

See to it that all wires correspond to their respective terminals or slots because if they don’t, there’s a high chance of damage or malfunction which could happen anytime.

Just a reminder, there’s a wire that comes directly from the fuse box that provides a steady source of power supply. It can only carry a specified max load and going beyond that can cause a fire. This is because it only activates the relays which turn on your 4×4’s lights.

Fuse vs Relay

fuse vs relay

Fuses vary depending on their specified max load. Some can carry two amps and others can carry three amps. What fuses do is they automatically melt or burn when too much electricity is flowing through them, to prevent further damage.

On the other hand, relays depend on the fuses for activation and amplify the amount of electricity that flows through them, to sustain other important components. For the full explanation, head to Danny Johnson’s Garage.

Make the Necessary Switch Panel Trim

switch panel trim

If you’ll be mounting your custom switch panel on your vehicle’s dash, you may need to cut portions of your basic switch panel mounting hardware. Just remove the factory switch panel and cut off its back part using a dremel tool.

POSSIBLE FAQs

  1. Where can I use custom switch panels?
  • A custom switch panel can be used to control a variety of electronic devices in your home or office.

2. Can custom switch panels be bought online?

  • Custom switch panels can be purchased online or at local home improvement stores.

3. Is it easy to install a custom switch panel?

  • Installation of a custom switch panel is typically easy and can be done by following the included instructions.

CONCLUSION

Learning how to make a custom switch panel helps you make the necessary adjustments on your 4×4’s system. Whether you’re after of changing the lighting layout or simply boosting your stereo’s sound, it just makes your ideas work in your favor. Tell us how you’d use your custom switch panel by commenting below.

 

 

 

 

 

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