Where to get a plastic electrical panel engraved?

R

randybartlett

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Jun 20, 2006
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21887
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So my switch panel (Triton TR21) is all faded. I got a replacement plastic (fake burl wood) panel. The problem is that the panel is all blank. I guess on different models and years they had different switches in different positions. I need the little letters than say RECIRC, MASTER POWER, etc.

So I read on the internet once (in a boat restoration article) that the guy sent the panel out and had it stenciled pretty cheaply. My (bad) memory is that the process is actually just removing the fake wood to reveal the white plastic underneath - etching or engraving I guess.

So who does this?
 
Most trophy shops have the equipment to do that. I had to get a bunch of plaques made up and they did it quickly and relatively inexpensively. If not try a jeweller who does engaving.
 
another option
go get a labeling gun - print and stick 'em.
they have lots of color and background options today.

I went so far as to color code the switches so whomever leaves the boat knows what is turned on/off (red/green) at a glance.
 
Thanks for the advice. The engraving might work. I think the labels might suffer in sun and rain.

I looked at the old panel closer. It's not engraved. They are silk-screened on there or somehow printed. I continue to ponder.
 
Engraving IS the way to go. Some trophy shops can only do small plaques, and others can engrave right on the large panel. Either one is OK, your choice.
 
quote:
Originally posted by marykhubby

another option
go get a labeling gun - print and stick 'em.
they have lots of color and background options today.

I went so far as to color code the switches so whomever leaves the boat knows what is turned on/off (red/green) at a glance.

Click to expand...


I like this option if the panel is inside. I use a label gun extensively. However, if the panel is outside it could be a problem. Possible you could overspray a protective coating such as a plastic shield.

G
 
I got it done today. It looks great.

The guy at the engraving shop told me to go to the vinyl sign shop. They had a machine that makes "thermal resin" images. Basically the white letters are thermally imprinted onto a sheet of very clear plastic (adhesive backed). Then the plastic is overlaid onto the panel. It looks better than new.

They charged me only $10 because I brought a computer file (powerpoint) with all the letters and where I wanted it trimmed at.

Can you tell I am happy?
 
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