Flush-mounting chartplotter in electronics box door?

[greyg8r]

I have an electronics box with a opaque plastic door that hinges on the top. My new Si-Tex ColorMax Wide chartplotter won't fit in this electronics box, where I would prefer for security concerns. I like the storage space in this electronics box.

I am considering making a new door out of white Starboard, flushmounting the Si-Tex and the to-be-named fishfinder next to it, and adding hinges to the top and a lockable hasp on the bottom.

This would allow me to add the electronics and still have the storage space behind the electronics in the box.

Are there any downsides to mounting electronics in an electronics box door? Yeah, it would be moved every time I open and close the door, but electronics aren't that sensitive.

Sorry, no pics, but I'll try to get some later if needed.
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- 1989 25' Grady White Sailfish, twin 1997 Yamaha 200 SWS II, 2000 EZ Loader aluminum tandem trailer
- 1974 16'7" Boston Whaler Katama (featured on Jaws), 1998 Evinrude 100, Rolls aluminum trailer
- 1970 13' Boston Whaler

http://www.elbrasil.com/jpgfiles/gra...sailfish3b.jpg

[tobnpr]

I've done what you're considering. I've always preferred flush mounting over placing them in the box. Problem is that flush mounting requires access from the rear- which I did not have in the overhead box I built- so I had to hinge a starboard panel to flush mount the electronics. I hinged the bottom w/ a continuous piano hinge, just flips down for easy access/ installation. Top of starboard panel is secured w/ screws; I suppose tamper-proof screws might be had which would make removal of the front panel more difficult for secutriy purposes.

[thataway]

No problem doing this--but consider how much you will be using the chart plotter, and how your neck will fare with all of the looking up. I like to have the chart plotter and FF just below my line of vision. Put the less used electronics in the box--maybe Radar, if you don't use it much --(if used frequently--also near the line of vision) VHF radio etc in the box, with a RAM type of mike etc...Just a personal opinion.

[greyg8r]

tobnpr: I am considering what you did, but I will use the box for storage (wallet, keys, etc.) frequently, so I am thinking of a lockable latch.

thataway: I have two electronic boxes; one attached to the bottom of the hardtop and the other a little below eye level in front of the helm. I am installing this stuff in the latter. I agree, if I installed it in the overhead box, that would be a major PITA. I only keep stuff that I don't use regularly, stereo and vhf in overhead.

Thanks.