Years ago, Brandon Mccomber got the idea to put a shift ring from Cobra Replicas and bondo it into the center
console of his Miata. I immediately went out and ordered one of these rings after seeing the photos of how nice
they made the console look. I've got a weakness for chrome, incase you didn't notice. Thanks again, for the
great idea Brandon!
Installing this piece requires turning the stock square hole into a round hole. I used Bondo for this task.
It wasn't the easiest thing, but it came out well and has lasted for the past 4 years. You need a frame beneath
the console to hold the bondo. I used a plastic CD tray glued to the underside and clipped to fit. Then, you
need some time to sand everything flat. I painted with flat black Krylon spraypaint and finished in a coat
of Testors Semi-gloss model spraypaint. Not easy work, but the result is very beautiful, and only about $35 in cost.
Want to know more about the center mounted gauges? I've got
a photo page set up with a few more shots of them and some text describing what I did.
Held in place with stainless steel capscrews. Also notice the leather shift and brake boots.
I had my winter-duty leather shift knob in place for this shot. Voodoo gets cold.
Closeup of the bondo work. Lots of patience necessary to get it blended well.
The other end of my center console is also slightly modified. I got tired of bumping my elbow on the hard plastic
and decided to cover it with some padded leather. I paid about $10 for the leather and $4 for the padding. A
few staples, and I produced what you see here. Wanna make one of your own? I
took some photos and typed out directions to help. Check it out.
A comfy place to rest my elbow on long trips! Some other leather is also pictured.
No ugly stick-on pad for me. I wanted something that looked a little more stock.
What's this doing here? I thought I'd include a couple shots of my S2000 start button. Years ago
I did the write-up for Miata.net on installing one into the early Miatas. I've recently updated it and moved
it to my site. Check it out.
There's nothing like starting your roadster with a big red button.
A closeup of the S2000 starter button with chrome bezel.
