Warning light gauge cluster refresh

[ClemsonChevy]

So I removed my gauge cluster to day to check bad bulbs and such. I took the cluster apart, and was amazed at how faded and cracked the original warning light filters were:





Here they are held up to light:



I had a good read from the "How to restore and Detail and Original Gauge Cluster thread" found here. While I had it apart, I repainted the fuel and speedo needles that were faded. I painted them white then bright orange. I had the paint already for using on gun sights.







Heres the fun part. I looked around for translucent colored things to use as new filters for the warning lights. I found these clear colored folder things at staples for $5. They didn't have a dark enough orange, but the pack I bought had green and red (along with blue, purple and clear). I folded the folder to make three layers. Using the cardboard tubes that the filters mount to, I traced around the outside of the tube with a fine tipped marker. I cut the pattern out which gave me three pieces. I used three stacked together per cardboard tube to give a deeper color. I test fit the three pieces just into the rubber ring and trimmed away my pieces until they fit without being bubbled or wavy. Once satisfied, I put the cardboard tube back together with the rubber and the new filters. Mine were still lighter colored than the originals, but I like the look.











My truck is going to be mainly a daily driver/beater, so I didn't worry about the light rust on the speedo gauge or the scratched cluster lens. Maybe this will give someone some helpful tips or ideas.