2012 Ford Escape Limited Build

[KK4LQX]

Hello All,

I am in the very beginning stages of building a new to me 2102 Ford Escape and for me the first part is deciding on a console to install.

I have noticed that Havis makes a console for the 08-12 Escape that completely replaces the factory console. Here's the link: Havis Products | C-VS-1800-ESC-1 2008-2012 Ford Escape Vehicle Specific 18" Console

Troy Products also makes a console. It is the 6th product down.
Here's the link: Consoles - Products

I'm looking for suggestions and reviews on the consoles this point. I am going to mount a TM-281 for APRS, TM-V71 (possibly upgraded to a D710), and BCD996XT (currently listed on the classifieds, if sold will upgrade to a 536HP).

I like the fact that the Troy "preserves" most of the factor look to the console but have no reference as to their quality. Havis on the other hand take away the factory look but has a reputation of good quality products. With the Troy console I have to cut the original console to get it to fit (they e-mailed me the installation instructions).

This vehicle is going to be my daily driver so comfort is of some concern, also it will be used for trips during vacations and holidays so I need to keep my wife in mind and happy (Happy Wife, Happy Life). Anywho any suggestions, thought or comments either way would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your time and assistance.

 

[FFPM571]

either one you have to modify some to get it to fit and or remove the factory console. I have installed both and prefer the troy

 

[KK4LQX]

either one you have to modify some to get it to fit and or remove the factory console. I have installed both and prefer the troy

May I ask what it is about Troy you prefer?


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[n5ims]

I like the fact that the Troy "preserves" most of the factor look to the console but have no reference as to their quality. Havis on the other hand take away the factory look but has a reputation of good quality products. With the Troy console I have to cut the original console to get it to fit (they e-mailed me the installation instructions).

If modifying the existing console is an issue, remove it and store it for when you sell/trade the car. Get one from a junk yard (they're basically the same from 2008 - 2012 so you should have a selection) and cut that one up as necessary. Removal without damage isn't all that difficult (it should be in the instructions they sent you) and you may even get a bit more when you sell it since the console should be in nearly new condition (no sun fading, scrapes, etc.).

 

[swstow]

i have installed both in have always like the havis , it is in my opinion a better built / stronger unit that will last

 

[FFPM571]

I just dont like the way the havis is. I really dont like any of their consoles for any vehicles

 

[Chilledboost]

I have a 2009 XLT 4x4, i have bought all of my equipment and am waiting to install when the weather gets better and i have time off work. i bought a Jotto console since it was only 290 with all the faceplates. my radios are a TM-d700 2m/440, Motorola XPR 4550 UHF, Motorola APX 6500 UHF/700/800, and a Radioshack PRO-2096.

 

[Chilledboost]

Ford Escape Police Equipment Console - Contour (2008-2012) 425-6154 - GoJotto

it says discontinued but they are still available from vendors

 

[KK4LQX]

Drop I filler plate

So I started doing some brainstorming and thought of making my own drop in console. What I'm trying to find now is to see if someone makes a plate that would sit in place of the organizer that comes in the console from the factory. Just want a flat piece to sit in place of the console and fill the hole in the front of the console that is left when the factory insert is removed.

From there my plan is to use faceplates from whoever and mount the faceplates to the plate, having already cut a hole in it to allow the radio. I would then use the front panel that covers the big hole in the front to panel mount mic connectors.

Right now my plan is to mount a TM-V71, BCD536HP and a TM-281 in there. I need an absolute minimum of 5.58" (142mm) if all the radios are stacked one on top of the other.

I'm pretty sure one can be made fairly simply. Just trying to see if anyone makes one that is nice, clean and polished that will drop right in out of the box (a.k.a. The Lazy Way Out)

Thanks in advance!

73s,
Evan
KK4LQX

 

[KK4LQX]

Just wants to give an update! It's taking shape nicely!

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[flythunderbird]

That looks good! I take it you're going to paint it black?

 

[WatnNY]

ha ha ha where there's a desire, there's a way! Great job in improvising and coming up with something that works for you! You must have a lot of VHF in your area that you want to listen to if you have both the V71A and 281!

Mike

 

[KK4LQX]

Lol no the 281 is for APRS


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[KK4LQX]

Oh and yes I'm either going to powder coat it or spray paint it. Haven't settled on one yet. I'm gonna play with it for a while and make sure everything is how I like it first.

And I can't take credit for it. I had someone else make it for me.


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[KK4LQX]

So just wanted to give an update again, everything is installed and working! So the first the pics are just a front, passenger and rear pic of the exterior. The passenger side rear antenna broke so I'm waiting on the replacement to show up. It'll be identical to the other rear one (3db Motorola Spectrum). The next picture is a picture from the drivers side. You can see the RPC Electronics YagTracker APRS terminal mounted to the window. Next is a zoomed out pic of the console and the next one in a zoomed in one. The last picture is a picture from the passenger side.


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[KK4LQX]

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