Replacing console/clutter catcher on Vista/Sunstar 29VE

LarryJB · 12-22-2016, 07:50 AM

I didn't get much response on this in the mod and fixes thread, so I thought I would start a new thread about it.

We have a 2017 Sunstar 29VE and the center console cup holder/clutter catcher mounted to the doghouse is pretty lame. I have seen a few posts about home made replacements. Even though those are a nice upgrade, they are similar. I was wondering if others have changed out theirs. If so, how hard is it to remove the factory one and mount something else?
I have studied it some and kinda think one reason for it being so short is to allow room for the driver to swivel in the chair and not hit their knees on the console. I am thinking of making a cardboard mockup to help me design something that will be functional, but not get in the way. I am hoping someone has already done this and would share their design.

Thanks,

LarryJB · 12-23-2016, 04:10 PM

Nobody??? Is there even an interest in doing this?

**macnut** · 12-23-2016, 04:12 PM

Yes I think there is interest, but it sounds like you are blazing the trail! :-) you may want to see what Tiffin does, as I think the have a platform that lifts up and creates a table.

Notayurt · 12-23-2016, 04:28 PM

I don't have access to my RV in storage, so I can't send a picture of our doghouse improvement. But - It was easy to remove the plastic unhelpful stock piece. We then got bought a 12x24 shelf from Home Depot and four 6 inch wooden table legs that screw into metal receivers. We cut the shelf to fit the doghouse lengthwise while not being too long to bark shins. The receivers went into the four corners of the underside of the shelf, and the front and back legs were cut to make the shelf level. We now have a level, accessible place for our GPS while driving, a clock when parked, and a place for my coffee cup in the morning when I park myself in the rotated passenger chair. I hope this description is helpful. Please forgive any typos as it's a pain to type on this damn touchpad!

Pepper2 · 12-23-2016, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by macnut

Yes I think there is interest, but it sounds like you are blazing the trail! :-) you may want to see what Tiffin does, as I think the have a platform that lifts up and creates a table.

**macnut** · 12-23-2016, 04:36 PM

Oops! It's actually Newmar that offers this on their Baystar model.

Here is a picture in the down position with the molded top, and also the extended position unfolded and ready for dinner.

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Klc · 12-23-2016, 04:55 PM

Ooh! Like that idea.

marc nichols · 12-26-2016, 05:29 PM

Yeah...I wonder if there are others?

Anyone know what needs to be done to get at the back side of the radio/multimedia screen on a 2015/16 Sunstar? I want to bypass the internal SAT radio with my existing and subscribed receiver.

qhilldogs · 03-31-2019, 12:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LarryJB

I didn't get much response on this in the mod and fixes thread, so I thought I would start a new thread about it.

We have a 2017 Sunstar 29VE and the center console cup holder/clutter catcher mounted to the doghouse is pretty lame. I have seen a few posts about home made replacements. Even though those are a nice upgrade, they are similar. I was wondering if others have changed out theirs. If so, how hard is it to remove the factory one and mount something else?
I have studied it some and kinda think one reason for it being so short is to allow room for the driver to swivel in the chair and not hit their knees on the console. I am thinking of making a cardboard mockup to help me design something that will be functional, but not get in the way. I am hoping someone has already done this and would share their design.

Thanks,

Now that this is a few years old and I have a center console that needs a makeover, I am sure people have done it it found things that work, so will you all share?

Thanks!

Michelle
2018 Sunstar 31SE

LarryJB · 04-01-2019, 10:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by qhilldogs

Now that this is a few years old and I have a center console that needs a makeover, I am sure people have done it it found things that work, so will you all share?

Thanks!

Michelle
2018 Sunstar 31SE

Michelle,
I no longer have the Vista 29VE, but I did make a console replacement and was quite pleased with it. Here is a picture

corvetteSS · 06-06-2019, 09:03 PM

[ATTACH]171700[/ATTACH

]This was my project 2 seasons ago..

Lowdie24 · 05-21-2020, 09:52 PM

Notayurt,

I have just got a 2019 27PE Sunstar and would definitly like to change out the doghouse cupholder. I have only looked at it very quickly, but don't see how to remove it. Is it secured to the doghouse underneath the cupholders? If so how do I remove them to get access to the securing hardware? It seems the rims of the cup holders floats but I haven't wanted to get tough with them for fear of breaking them.

Lowdie24

corvetteSS · 05-22-2020, 01:02 PM

There is a small cap on each cup holder. seam is where the rubber flaps stick out.
the catches are at 6 oclock,10 and 2

After you pop off those caps, there are screws under there.

SimonSKL · 02-15-2021, 04:37 PM

This is my console upgrade I made to my Vista 31BE last year.

JulieD · 04-16-2021, 11:14 AM

Omg. LOVE THIS! Do you have the plans for this? Did you make it? Help. We need one. Please advise how to get or make one of these! Thank you so much!!

SimonSKL · 04-16-2021, 08:45 PM

I do make and sell these console upgrades. However, I am traveling in the next 3 weeks and won’t be home until after 5/10/21. Check my website Dragonfly2.net after 5/10/21.

JulieD · 04-17-2021, 08:03 AM

@SimonSKL. Went to website. Looks awesome. So each item is to be purchased separately? But also saw you are not making any until October? Is this correct? Do you send instructions on how this is set up and which parts are needed.? I'm curious how this is mounted/stabilized in cup holders below and to existing console. Was hoping to get sooner than later so we can enjoy it this years camping season. October she will be put in storage. Thank you so much for your time and Happy camping!! Look forward to hearing from you and hopefully getting this ordered.

SimonSKL · 04-17-2021, 08:44 AM

The console is supported in the front by a pedestal anchored on top of the cup holder. A cup holder cover plate is included to provide the platform. The back of the console is supported by two 90 degree brackets, one on each side. Everything you see in the picture plus mounting hardware and instructions are included. I make 3 variations of upgrades depending on your current dash/console configuration. It is an easy straight forward installation takes about 30 min. Please contact me after 5/10/21 after I return home.

welbe13 · 05-08-2021, 11:05 PM

Nice work! I may have to order one come October!

6cwayne · 06-29-2021, 01:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SimonSKL

The console is supported in the front by a pedestal anchored on top of the cup holder. A cup holder cover plate is included to provide the platform. The back of the console is supported by two 90 degree brackets, one on each side. Everything you see in the picture plus mounting hardware and instructions are included. I make 3 variations of upgrades depending on your current dash/console configuration. It is an easy straight forward installation takes about 30 min. Please contact me after 5/10/21 after I return home.

Those look like 3D printed parts. May I ask what filament you used? ABS, PETG?

Cheers