by Greg Kneser
Rustproof Tub
FJ40 Stereo Shelf
LC Screen Saver
Greg's Home
Main Home
Well, I had my stereo set up in my Tuffy center console (story soon) and wanted to install a multi disc CD changer. I didn't have space anywhere. I didn't want to take up precious space in the Tuffy b/c that's supposed to be for items I need to lock up when I take the top off and the CD changer would take up the entire thing. I didn't want to put it in the back or just bolted anywhere because that would be likely to get both damaged and stolen if it were in plain view or when I took the top off. So, I built a magic little shelf that you can't see from the outside unless you look for it and put the CD changer on top of that where it almost definitely can't be seen from the outside...the only evidence of it is the cord that runs down the roll bar.
To make the shelf, simply take a random plank of plywood or particle board or OSB or anything else, measure it for width (mine is approximately 1.5 feet wide). Measure the length of it so that it will run from on top of the windshield frame to under and behind the roll bar. This works in a 76 FJ40 for sure, but likely works in most models. Drill two (or more) holes in the back of the plank where hose clamps will run and attach it to the roll bar. It's imperative to measure twice and cut/drill once on these so that you don't waste a board because it comes loose. Drill the holes so that they will definitely be behind the centerline of the roll bar to hold it tight in against the windshield frame top.
View from directly beneath the plank.
View from the side of the board before I had to install the spacer.
Next, grab your stereo, wiring supplies, and handy girlfriend.
This view shows the shelf from behind with the 2x4 spacer inserted. The spacer was necessary to fit the CD changer in. Note that the spacer was attached to the shelf with screws. This will prevent it from sqeezing out and letting the shelf loose. You should pay great attention to the shelf for the first few weeks, perhaps retightening it, to make sure that it won't pop loose. If you take the top off, it's important to remember that a bump might pop the front up...where the wind catches it...and it flies over. I plan on either removing it in the summer (since it's so easy to do) or attaching it to the two small threaded tabs on top of the windshield frame.
This view shows the changer attached to the shelf and a (meaning one of the many) handiness of your girlfriend.
Finally, wire that puppy up following the original instructions and you're all set.
It's not too exciting of a trick or that involved of a process, but it's really added to the drivability of my cruiser. Especially considering that it only cost me maybe $15.00 for the hose clamps, the plank, and some screws. Now, I can store maps, my jacket if I get warm, a hat, food, my stereo, and anything else with great ease. Plus, my stereo is out of sight and out of harms way. When the summer comes around and I take the top off, I'll probably disconnect the wire and remove the unit for theft reasons and because I'd be worried about the shelf flying off in the wind.
If I had it to do over again and I were a professional fabaricator or welder, I would make it out of a sheet of metal that's reinforced with cross pieces (angle iron or the like). I would make it a sealed waterproof box with lockable storage and speaker boxes. Then again, if I could do that, I'd be Tuffy.