This is how it all started. Got this slab of Alu off eBay along with 3 more kilos. £34 delivered.
Some sketches and the GPS with the ss "bolt".
I first made an "outline" of the piece that I was to use. I know I should have done it with something else than milling into the slab. :P I'm just about to drill the hole for the "bolt".
I've now drawn out the generic shape of it all.
Further work on the generic shape. I was hoping to make rounded angles by using a larger milling bit, but that plan went out the window because I was a bit clumsy.
Another "problem" I had was that my milling bits weren't long enough to cut through the whole material.
There's the main shape of the holder.
Then I had to use a 6mm bit to get to the depth as the 6mm bit was the only one with the same diameter throughout.
There's the "part", now for the fine machining.
Bolt holes in the bottom.
Now it is, technically functional. But we can't leave it at that, can we. :)
My milling head angles so I can put angles on things.
Bottom is taking shape, as is the "neck".
Another view. Still quite rough.
And then we'll make the "neck" lighter. For some reason my milling bit started diving in this resulting in a too deep cut, if you know anything about how to avoid this, let me know.
And then hand-filing. My hands hurt today!
Another angle.
First proper test mount into the plastic of the car. Naturally bolts will be cut, it will be painted, etc.
There it is, fitted in the car. Still needs finishing off (cutting bolts, sanding, painting, etc), but let's try it out first for a few days before we bling it up.
And with the GPS in place.
Another angle. Caz says it only obscures the temperature reading, she can still see the clock. She can see the temp if she makes a slight effort to look over the GPS. Must say I'm quite pleased so far. :)
Finishing in progress.
More finishing.
First coat of paint baking in the oven, ca 120C for 5 mins.
Just about to apply the 2nd coat of paint.
Second coat baking in the oven; 120C for 10 minutes or more. Let it cool and you get...
this piece...
Here you have it back in its spot.
Another angle of the finished GPS holder.
Last angle-shot.
