I moved the original panel from it's original low position to the back on the port side. I used the original box (at the time I couldn't find a suitable replacement) and created a new panel using Front Panel Express.
They provide software and you can design a panel EXACTLY to your specifications. Be precise with your measurements as they will be. It was cheap about $100 overall for a black aluminum panel with precut holes for gauges, switches and screw holes.
I found a winch handle box to fill the hole of the original panel so it worked out well. These are older pictures...
When I reran all of the wiring, I eliminated the 'trailer hitch' connection and used a terminal strip to connect wiring from the engine to the new wiring for the various gauges. Originally I included an amp meter, but after reading about the negatives, I replaced with a volt meter, which seems to work better for my needs. I also moved all of the outside lighting on the boat to an outside panel. I know the boat is small, but I sail alone a lot and I thought it would be nice to have the steaming, running, spreader, etc. lights at arm's reach.
I also purchased a stereo system with the remote station so I could also control music from the cockpit.
All in all, an easy project that probably cost about $500 or so for all the new gauges, panel, wire, SSI box, etc.
Chris