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Aftermarket gauges

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I am replacing all my gauges in my re-build. Does anyone make nice gauges to fit the dash (64). The holes are 3-7/8". Not standard for any aftermarket gauge I can find (speed/tach).

Gary
 
Why are you replacing them? If they are giving you problems, simply have them rebuilt. It's cheaper than new gauges and they will last a very long time before needing service again.
 
This is a V6 FI conversion with nearly everything new. I wanted some of the nice aftermarket electronic classic type gauges. I just can't seem to find any of them in 4". Very little on this car original.
 
The OD of the tach and speedo will be a problem. I don't think VDO offers anything the right size. You may want to visit www.egauges.com and send the folks there an email asking what AutoMeter has in the diameter you need. Egauges.com carries several brands at very good prices.

As Steve mentioned, rebuilding and converting is still an economical option for you. Places like Nisonger (or even local speedo shops) can rebuild your speedometer and make a ratio adapter gearbox for you. This would allow your transpanted drivetrain to operate your "stock" speedo. The tachometer is a bit more challenging. Assuming you're using a Smiths RVC tachometer, there are a couple of web sites I have links to at work that sell conversion board to update and convert instruments. They aren't cheap but they would allow your existing instrument to operate with your new engine. Let me know if you want the links.
 
Thanks Doug, I'll send them an e-mail. I e-mailed one of the big gauge co's and had not heard back from them. VDO makes one set in 4" and It may look ok with the chrome ring:
https://www.nhspeedometer.com/cockpit_page1.htm
I am ready to wrinkle the dash. I should get to it the next week or so. I am waiting for the hot weather without as much humidity.

Gary
 
Afternoon Gary,

If you are prepared to go to a lttle extra effort I can recommend Gower Oaks in the UK, used then to get some new build auxillary Smiths instruments (voltmeter and Clock) for each of my cars. They make new guages using original tooling (including guages suitable for use in Cobras btw)

Good people, with prompt delivery

https://www.gower-oaks.co.uk/

regards

Tom
 
Just to back up and expound a little bit on what Tom said....

Smiths instruments are currently being manufactured by Caerbont and sold by Grower Oaks. Recently I've had some email exchanges with the technical folks at Caerbont and they appear to be very helpful and friendly, very enthusiastic about their products. While I love VDO instruments, VDO is now part of a much larger Siemens group. I very much appreciate the direct communication and support from Smiths/Caerbont. This is something I'm not used to seeing with the larger instrument makers. If you want an "original" looking dash I'm sure Smiths/Caerbont will have new instruments suitable for the task with the "right look".
 
Thanks guys, Right now I have to re-wrinkle the dash. It didn't go well the first time. I think I went too heavy on the coats. Time to sand it back down.

I prefer doing it right the first time! It's never as fun the 2nd!

Gary
 
Are you doing a wrinkle finish spray? If so, I have found it's extremely important to follow the manufacturer's instructions completely... especially the lenght of time between coats and waiting a full 12 hours for the wrinkle to appear after the second coat. That said, when I've had problems I've applied a third coat after 12 more hours followed by the application of a heat lamp to force the paint to wrinkle. Good luck with your project.
 
Thanks Doug, I may try another coat ans see what happends. It was going wel then the 3rd coat seem to stop the effect. I did some other parts that came out great. I had good sunlight until the end and it was not as direct. Cool stuff really!
 
But their still mechanical. I have a couple reasons for wanting electric; such as I have 3 cars right now with spedo/tire rear end issues. I don't want the hassle of calibrating a speedometer. And other reasons. Anyway, I got the VDO 4" black. They should look similar with the chrome ring.
 
Take a look under the Telmetrix product page at:
https://www.caigauge.com/White_Dial_Instruments.htm
And "International" with black-faces:
https://www.caigauge.com/International_Instruments.htm

Both these Smiths/Caerbont lines have electronic speedometers and programmable electronic tachs. Shoot them an email if you're interested.

You won't be sorry with VDO though. I love their stuff. However, you'll need to program the VDO just like anything else. This is easy though as you can put the unit into self-program mode and drive a measured mile. At the end you stop and push the set/reset button and you're programmed. What could be easier?
 
Wow, I hadn't seen that. Right size too. I have a spedo from a nother car I have to send off right now. I made the measurments and can't find them.

One thing at a time right?
 
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