There are no built-in cupholders in a lot of older, classic trucks, like the '67-'72 Chevy C-series. You have everything needed to light up a cigarette, including a lighter and an ashtray, but no provision for stowing that Big Gulp or Frosty. It seems pretty silly, especially if you don't smoke. Didn't people drive with beverages back in the day? There must have been a lot of guys walking around with wet crotches back then, because we know these trucks didn't ride too well from the factory. Brothers Truck Parts has an ingenious solution to the missing cupholder problem, and if you don't mind losing the use of your ashtray, then it will be perfect for you. The company has an inexpensive conversion kit that puts a pair of pop-out cupholders right into the factory ashtray location. In the closed position, you'd never know they are there, and once open, you and your passenger are dialed in for thirst-quenching. Check it out.
What's in the Box? You'll...
What's in the Box?
You'll have to use your existing ashtray as a mounting location, but otherwise everything else is included in the kit, except for the handtools necessary to make the conversion happen.
1. We needed to split the...
1. We needed to split the stock ashtray in two by drilling out a pair of rivets using a 1/4-inch drill bit.
2. This separated the face...
2. This separated the face of the ashtray from the case. Once apart, the mounting tab was cut off.
3. Next, the stock mounting...
3. Next, the stock mounting tray was cut in half, using a die grinder and cut-off wheel.
4. The mounting tray was further...
4. The mounting tray was further modified by drilling mounting holes for the new cupholder insert, using the supplied template.
5. Now that we had some holes,...
5. Now that we had some holes, the insert was attached to the tray using the supplied sheetmetal screws.
6. The entire assembly could...
6. The entire assembly could now be reinstalled into the dashboard. Note that we are using Brothers' display dash to make it easier to see what's going on.
7. Here's a look at how the...
7. Here's a look at how the kit fits from the backside of the dash.
8. And with the application...
8. And with the application of some super-strong double-sided tape, the original fascia was attached to the cupholder, making the whole thing look bone-stock when in the closed position.
The Final Word
Some of us smoke, and some don't. Either way, we think having a place to keep your cola is smart and will prevent you from spilling your drink all over that expensive Mercedes wool carpet you had installed. We give this product two thumbs-up for its easy installation and simplicity.