I found some really cool rocker switches that approximately fit in the 3 rectangular knock-outs below the xB storage tray door, above the cig-lighter & ash tray. They are difficult to describe in words and the pic below doesn't really display how great they are; IMHO they match the xB interior perfectly. In my testing (not permanently mounted yet), the switch glows white and the color in OFF and intensified color in ON. I purchased three of the ones in the pic from my local store, ElectronicPartsCo.com - dark black right (#2 of #3 counting from left):



See the following web page for description & specs:

http://rocker-switches.carlingtech.c...switch__19.asp

They are illuminated: Incandescent 12-volt lamp rated 10,000 hours (can be dimmed). I got one each: red, green & amber lights. Other colors may be available. Cost: about $11/each. They are repackaged and sold carded retail as a brand name "Philmore" (LKG Industries, Rockford, IL).

Green: Part No. 30-16505
Red: Part No. 30-16510
Amber: Part No. 30-16500

The CarlingSwitch.com model is called "V-Series: Contura III" and the switch itself has the following marking: V1DA 20A 12V.

Now, here is my question:

Does anyone have pics or a description of the 3 knockout blanks in the xB?

The mounting hole for this switch is 0.830" x 1.450". The knock-out seems to measure about 1" x 1 5/8". The switch is not recessed and the rocker handle will hit the above storage tray door when the door is opened. Therefore I need to figure out how to recess and mount the switch into the existing panel back about a 1/4" to 1/8".

I've studied various pics on this site and other sites. Any guidance and description or pics will be much appreciated. Thanks. :D RPM

 

hmmmmm, this is interesting. i get internet at my house tomorrow (using at work right now) so i will take a look at this thread again and see what i can figure out if no one else answers

 

Thanks for your willingness to help.

As you read above, the switch requires a slightly smaller hole than the plugs. What do the plugs look like on the inside? How are they removed? Can they be reinstalled? How can I mount and recess the switch slightly into the panel so the large switch rocker handle does not hit the bottom of the storage tray door?

I thought of making 3 thin aluminum rectangular offset washers, but that's a lot of tedious work! I don't want to get different switches; I like these too much. Thanks again. :D RPM

 

OK I finally got a little bold and figured this out for myself. I've only had the xB for 45 days and I was worried about breaking something, especially something plastic!

I'll answer my own questions:

What do the plugs look like on the inside?
- They have a rigid ridge around the inside rectangle and two plastic spring locks to hold them into the rectangular hole.

How are they removed?
- It's so easy it makes me feel stupid for asking. Just reach your arm under the glove box and around to the back of the plugs and pinch the two plastic springs. The first plug pops right out. Then you can stick a finger into the hole from the front and pop out the other two plugs... takes about 30 seconds.

Can they be reinstalled?
- Yes. Just push them back in.

How can I mount and recess the switch slightly into the panel so the large switch rocker handle does not hit the bottom of the storage tray door?
- This is going to be more difficult. I think it can be done with X-Acto knives, razor knives and a Dremel tool... it may require a custom switch plate/panel. It looks doable and worth the work.

Comments welcome. Thanks. RPM