Workbench
Overview:
How we faced the unexpected challenge of lowering our boat’s masts with no experience, no tools, and sheer determination.
Years of sun exposure, cracks, and messy modifications had left the original Volvo Penta dashboard in poor shape. Rather than just repairing it, I designed a completely new panel – staying true to the classic aesthetics while integrating modern upgrades. The result? A durable, UV-resistant dashboard with USB ports, LED backlighting, and laser-cut engravings that match the original perfectly. Want to see the full transformation?
A simple backlight wasn’t enough – I built a dimmable, dual-color LED system for my boat’s dashboard! With a toggle switch for warm white and red lighting, plus a PWM dimmer for smooth brightness control, this setup enhances nighttime navigation while preserving night vision.
From circuit design to final installation, see how I brought this upgrade to life!