Reviewer's Notebook: Tuffy Security Console

Mar. 01, 2001 By Shawn Spickler

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Security is essential to have when traveling or if you happen to park in a bad neighborhood. It doesn't help matters either if your vehicle wears a soft top since there's not much between your valuables and a thief. Luckily, Tuffy Security Products have come out with a durable locking storage console thats almost bullet proof. Tuffy carries a complete line of consoles and many other locking boxes for Jeeps and other 4x's.

Our stock console had a little to be desired. The stock console is functional but if you want durability and protection, forget it. The stock console can easily be broken into.

The Tuffy console on the left compared to the stocker on the right.
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Even though the stock console locks, it wouldn't take much to pop it open with a screwdriver. Another problem with the stock unit is it can't support weight without cracking. When the stock console was removed , a crack was found. This was probably caused by someone sitting on it.

The features on our console consists of Tuffy's exclusive Pry-Guard locking system, which incorporates a high quality tubular keyed lock. A steel hinge attaches the heavy gauge, reinforced lids to the welded 16 gauge steel lockboxes. The lids incorporate a neoprene seal which helps protect the lockboxes contents from moisture and prevents rattles. A durable textured powder coat finish protects the console exterior. A thick vinyl pad mounts on top of the console and works great for any unexpected passenger. Grade 8 bolts are used to secure the console to the floor. 4 sizes are available ranging from 6.5" wide to 12.5" wide. Applications include Jeep CJ & YJ, Ford Bronco, Chevy Blazer, Intl. Scout, Land Rover Defender, some Toyota Landcruisers, trucks and SUVs with sufficient mounting space.

All the parts laid out. Most of the console is already put together.
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Since we needed to install a CB, the deluxe model was ordered. This model houses and supports a CB or a stereo and mounts at a 66 degree angle. It has a thick metal flap which locks with the console to provide protection from thieves or mother nature. The CB we got to mount inside the Tuffy console was smaller than the pre-cut hole but it worked out perfectly since the microphone fit snug inside. If you don't need to mount a CB or stereo, a Series II console can be ordered which has the same features as Deluxe console except it doesn't include separate compartment for stereo.

We ordered the Deluxe model which comes with a CB/stereo compartment.
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Installation is a snap. Some assembly is required to mount the bottom bracket and cup holders. The bottom bracket supports the back of the Tuffy console and makes it sit level. The cup holders can be mounted in front or behind the console. We chose to mount them in the rear. Tuffy also provides thin neoprene seals to stick along the edges to prevent rattles and protect the contents. Grade 8 bolts are used to mount the console to the floor. The console looked great mounted in our project Blazer. The CB was within easy reach and can be viewed easily. You can tell quality craftsmanship went into this product. The console also sits higher and provides an arm rest for those long trips. It's nice to know any valuble locked up in the Tuffy console will be well secured.

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