Overhead YJ/TJ Console Installed in Project "Rock-Buggy"

May. 01, 2001 By Tony Carricaburu

Email
Print
Discuss

INTRODUCTION:

This month we're going to take a look at Tuffy's Overhead Security Console for the YJ/TJ Jeeps. I was excited about installing the overhead console since I have been very pleased with my Tuffy center console for years. In that time, I've come to realize that Tuffy products are just what they say they are - tough. I've put my YJ center console through some serious use and never had a problem with it to date. The only problem I had was drilling into it. Tuffy made this console so strong that my drill bits didn't faze the steel construction. The overhead console wasn't an exception: This console was just as heavy-duty as my Tuffy center console and both are constructed of 16 gauge high security steel.

INSTALLATION:

Installing the Tuffy overhead console was a breeze. Tuffy has apparently taken the time to adapt a well built and very versitile product that works both in YJ and TJ model Jeeps (all share the same PN#). Installation consisted of two supplied bolts mounted to the front windshield tie down restraint. This had to be removed and repositioned on the Tuffy console in a designated place for bikini top use. These mounts held the front portion of the console securely in place. As for the rear of the center console, three U- bolts were used to clamp the console to the factory Jeep roll-bar. Let me tell you this is one strong mounting idea from Tuffy. It's nice to know I'm not going to be hearing any new rattles from this unit.

EVALUATION:

After installing the Tuffy overhead security console I was immediately thinking of what I was going to be installing in into it. I decided it was time for a new CB - well not really, but I had my eye on this really cool new CB that Midland produces. (Midland Radio Article). I've wanted to have an overhead console with a CB mounted in it for several years now. I actually attempted making an overhead deck for my Jeep but needless to say that made its way into the scrap pile. It wasn't as easy as I expected. I then decided to just wait for a company to come out with one. About a year later I was right. Tuffy was introducing a new product, the YJ/TJ overhead console. I've actually seen a couple of other companies that make YJ overhead CB mountable consoles but none of them compare to the Tuffy unit. It's one thing to have the luxury of having my CB hanging overhead, but it's another to also be able to lock and secure the CB and accessories as well.

EVALUATION 2:

Now that one of my Tuffy security consoles drop down compartments has been occupied by my new Midland CB I was then thinking of what else I could install in the second drop down compartment. I debated on a switch panel for controlling my on-board air, off-road lights, undercarriage lights, etc., but later thought about how many wires that would have to consist of running across my non-padded roll bars. So, I finally just decided to mount a CB external speaker. I went to Radio Shack and picked an average size and average volume output external CB speaker. This speaker came equipped with a speaker mounting bracket similar to the CB's style mounting bracket.

I have been really impressed with Tuffy's overhead consoles compartment drop down boxes. They are so easy to mount things on and the smooth operating compartment makes for a well designed console.