Aftermarket gauge clusters. - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

In The Ten Ring · 11-26-2013, 11:34 AM

Are aftermarket gauge clusters a sure bet? I'd like to add a temp guage, oil pressure, and ammeter guage but I think having those mounted other than originally designed would be distracting to find and look at. I WANT ORIGINAL LOOKING GUAGES.

Sorry, I didn't think to be specific when I first posted.

So...here is my problem. Would it be easier to just buy a whole new set up, say from one of the venders here, OR buy an original (albeit UV damaged) cluster and have TB Bone restore it for me?

How well do new clusters work and fit into my existing dash?

suspect · 11-26-2013, 12:06 PM

I went with all AutoMeter antique beige. They fit nicely in the stock panel but you do have to come up with creative brackets to hold them in place. The pricing is about the same as a new stock gauge setup.
I love the look of the AutoMeters. I have a few pics of it towards the last 2 pages of my build thread.

suspect · 11-26-2013, 12:10 PM

Sorry, I think I misunderstood your question. Are you referring to just stock type gauge clusters?

Putter · 11-26-2013, 12:28 PM

Something like.....
THIS

or....

THESE

Just holler if I can be of assistance.

markiemark · 11-26-2013, 12:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Putter

Something like.....
THIS

or....

THESE

Just holler if I can be of assistance.

You still doing this for members? If so pm me a price. Thanks

ksshane · 11-26-2013, 02:10 PM

+1
Inquiring minds

Andy4639 · 11-26-2013, 03:20 PM

Stock dashes weather they are full gauges are just the bare min all fit the same opening in the dash area once U take it out.
If U swap form a none full gauge cluster to a full cluster U will have to change out some wires on the back side of the pigtail and need to have the correct printed circuit for the gauges.

chopnchaneled · 11-26-2013, 04:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by In The Ten Ring

Are aftermarket gauge clusters a sure bet? I'd like to add a temp guage, oil pressure, and ammeter guage but I think having those mounted other than originally designed would be distracting to find and look at.

So...here is my problem. Would it be easier to just buy a whole new set up, say from one of the venders here, OR buy an original (albeit UV damaged) cluster and have TB Bone restore it for me?

How well do new clusters work and fit into my existing dash?

Go with Tom,,,,,, I just got mine and it looks great !!! He kept me updated
all the way thur the build.

In The Ten Ring · 11-26-2013, 08:01 PM

Putter,

Wow, those look great!

I updated my originial post....but...

What I want to ask, is it better to get an original, extra guage cluster restored or just buy a new multi guage cluster from a vendor (getting into the $500.00 range)?

jeh · 11-26-2013, 08:16 PM

Putter, I wish I saw yours before I bought the VHX, but I think I'll be happy with them.

Lattimer · 11-26-2013, 09:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by In The Ten Ring

Putter,

Wow, those look great!

I updated my originial post....but...

What I want to ask, is it better to get an original, extra guage cluster restored or just buy a new multi guage cluster from a vendor (getting into the $500.00 range)?

probably 6 of one, half dozen of the other. Probably going to add up about the same by the time you are done.

I bought mine from a guy who who refurbing and customizing them on here, and it turned out great. Not sure where he got his cores, but he didn't ask for one back.

IIRC I paid $475 for a refurbished tach dash with a correct looking clock added in the empty spot. Looks and works like new. Pretty sure the tach kit was added to a non tach dash to make it, which is not cheap just for the parts.

Compared to $800+ for a new repop dash, I was happy with that.

**TBONE1964** · 11-26-2013, 10:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chopnchaneled

Go with Tom,,,,,, I just got mine and it looks great !!! He kept me updated
all the way thur the build.

Thank you Joe, I appreciate that very much.

swamp rat · 11-26-2013, 10:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Putter

Something like.....
THIS

or....

THESE

Just holler if I can be of assistance.

Dang it i cant subscribe to your old thread... Very nice!

In The Ten Ring · 11-26-2013, 10:53 PM

So in other words, I might ought to just buy a new guage cluster, bezel, and all?

bbcmudtruck · 11-26-2013, 11:09 PM

I'll snap a picture of mine for you. Its not nearly as nice as the ones that putter is doing, but it gives you an alternative. Its a cheap empty gauge cluster that I filled in with all Equis gauges. It has all the holes where the factory ones go, however its a cheap piece of plastic. The P/O had already started on this project so I just finished it until I could figure out what to do for sure. For a hotrod look, it looks great.

*Mister-B* · 11-26-2013, 11:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by In The Ten Ring

So in other words, I might ought to just buy a new guage cluster, bezel, and all?

Not necessarily. I'd much rather use good factory parts and keep it original looking where possible. Mine is a combination of my original parts, junk yard finds, a new bezel, and new bulbs. Have Tom take care of you, and I think you'll be pleased with your decision to keep it original looking.

Here's mine

67ctener · 11-27-2013, 12:16 AM

I agree with mister b. It is all opinions but I'd say stick with original. The next project on my list is to restore my gauge cluster. Nothing like the look of original. I also bought a very nice vac and 80lb gauge ill be adding. Nice originals are still out there. Below is the one I picked up, hardly uv damaged at all. A little freshen up with new bezel and vac lens and its as good as a new Geniune gm cluster

alloutpro · 11-27-2013, 12:25 AM

i am doing the same research and I am an original guy but i don't mind some UV damage...she's 40+ yrs. old... I did find these online after doing some digging...

http://www.tuckersparts.com/Instrument-Cluster-Kit.html

But I want a salvage fully optioned gauge cluster to replace my existing set.....

67ctener · 11-27-2013, 12:28 AM

That's very expensive you can find restored factory ones with all the bells and whistles, even speed warnings for cheaper

alloutpro · 11-27-2013, 12:48 AM

sweeet! what do i search to find these 1960's OEM clusters...I'm in CA

*Mister-B* · 11-27-2013, 12:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alloutpro

sweeet! what do i search to find these 1960's OEM clusters...I'm in CA

Check the for sale parts area of the forum. Also, send a PM to Tbone1964, and he can hook you up

litew8 · 11-27-2013, 12:53 AM

I agree, depending on what gauges you need, original are better.
I bought new and compared the old OE oil pressure gauge with the new - no comparison, OE hands down built better.

OE on top

alloutpro · 11-27-2013, 12:54 AM

what is a PM

*Mister-B* · 11-27-2013, 12:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alloutpro

what is a PM

Private Message. Click his name above, then you'll see the option

Chevymann1968 · 11-27-2013, 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Putter

Something like.....
THIS

or....

THESE

Just holler if I can be of assistance.

White Face cluster!!!

11-26-2013, 11:34 AM	#1
In The Ten Ring Registered User Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: West Virginia Posts: 6,421	Aftermarket gauge clusters. Are aftermarket gauge clusters a sure bet? I'd like to add a temp guage, oil pressure, and ammeter guage but I think having those mounted other than originally designed would be distracting to find and look at. I WANT ORIGINAL LOOKING GUAGES. Sorry, I didn't think to be specific when I first posted. So...here is my problem. Would it be easier to just buy a whole new set up, say from one of the venders here, OR buy an original (albeit UV damaged) cluster and have TB Bone restore it for me? How well do new clusters work and fit into my existing dash? Last edited by In The Ten Ring; 11-26-2013 at 07:57 PM.

11-26-2013, 12:06 PM	#2
suspect Registered User Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: oklahoma city Posts: 692	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. I went with all AutoMeter antique beige. They fit nicely in the stock panel but you do have to come up with creative brackets to hold them in place. The pricing is about the same as a new stock gauge setup. I love the look of the AutoMeters. I have a few pics of it towards the last 2 pages of my build thread. __________________ Daniel 68 C10 Build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=503594 Romans 10:13 Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

11-26-2013, 12:10 PM	#3
suspect Registered User Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: oklahoma city Posts: 692	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. Sorry, I think I misunderstood your question. Are you referring to just stock type gauge clusters? __________________ Daniel 68 C10 Build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=503594 Romans 10:13 Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

11-26-2013, 12:28 PM	#4
Putter More Cowbell.... Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Puckett, MS Posts: 3,569	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. Something like..... THIS or.... THESE Just holler if I can be of assistance. __________________ *There once was a member from Puckett.....Who ( fill in the blank blank blank* ) bucket**

11-26-2013, 02:10 PM	#6
ksshane Registered User Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Wichita Ks Posts: 495	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. +1 Inquiring minds __________________ 71 swb 350/4sp manual 5/7 static drop

11-26-2013, 03:20 PM	#7
Andy4639 Old member Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Liberty, & Garden City S.C. , U.S. Posts: 19,936	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. Stock dashes weather they are full gauges are just the bare min all fit the same opening in the dash area once U take it out. If U swap form a none full gauge cluster to a full cluster U will have to change out some wires on the back side of the pigtail and need to have the correct printed circuit for the gauges. __________________ 1971 LWB Custom, 6.0LS & 4L80E, Speedhut.com GPS speedometer & gauges with A/C. 20" Boss 338's Grey wheels 4 wheel disc brakes. My Driver Seeing the USA in a 71 Upstate SC GM Truck Club 2013,14 and 2016 Hot Rod Pour Tour http://upstategmtrucks.com/ Get out and drive the truck this summer and have some fun! It sucks not being able to hear! LWB trucks rule, if you don't think so measure your SWB! After talking to tech support at Air Lift I have found out that the kit I need is 60811. Per the measurements I gave them. Ride height of truck inside spring and inside diameter of springs.

11-26-2013, 08:01 PM	#9
In The Ten Ring Registered User Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: West Virginia Posts: 6,421	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. Putter, Wow, those look great! I updated my originial post....but... What I want to ask, is it better to get an original, extra guage cluster restored or just buy a new multi guage cluster from a vendor (getting into the $500.00 range)?

11-26-2013, 08:16 PM	#10
jeh Registered User Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: sutton WV Posts: 1,822	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. Putter, I wish I saw yours before I bought the VHX, but I think I'll be happy with them. Attached Images __________________ Jason '70 C-10 short fleet 427BB TH400 (SOLD) '10 Ford F 350 '13 Ford RAPTOR 6.2 MY BUILD THREAD http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=612623

11-26-2013, 10:53 PM	#14
In The Ten Ring Registered User Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: West Virginia Posts: 6,421	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. So in other words, I might ought to just buy a new guage cluster, bezel, and all?

11-26-2013, 11:09 PM	#15
bbcmudtruck Registered User Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: ravenwood, mo Posts: 709	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. I'll snap a picture of mine for you. Its not nearly as nice as the ones that putter is doing, but it gives you an alternative. Its a cheap empty gauge cluster that I filled in with all Equis gauges. It has all the holes where the factory ones go, however its a cheap piece of plastic. The P/O had already started on this project so I just finished it until I could figure out what to do for sure. For a hotrod look, it looks great.

11-27-2013, 12:16 AM	#17
67ctener Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Arlington Washington Posts: 1,808	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. I agree with mister b. It is all opinions but I'd say stick with original. The next project on my list is to restore my gauge cluster. Nothing like the look of original. I also bought a very nice vac and 80lb gauge ill be adding. Nice originals are still out there. Below is the one I picked up, hardly uv damaged at all. A little freshen up with new bezel and vac lens and its as good as a new Geniune gm cluster Attached Images __________________ Scott 67 c10 sold 89 c1500 90 k2500 91 s10 #chevyonly

11-27-2013, 12:25 AM	#18
alloutpro Registered User Join Date: Nov 2013 Location: ventura,CA Posts: 33	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. i am doing the same research and I am an original guy but i don't mind some UV damage...she's 40+ yrs. old... I did find these online after doing some digging... http://www.tuckersparts.com/Instrument-Cluster-Kit.html But I want a salvage fully optioned gauge cluster to replace my existing set.....

11-27-2013, 12:28 AM	#19
67ctener Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Arlington Washington Posts: 1,808	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. That's very expensive you can find restored factory ones with all the bells and whistles, even speed warnings for cheaper __________________ Scott 67 c10 sold 89 c1500 90 k2500 91 s10 #chevyonly

11-27-2013, 12:48 AM	#20
alloutpro Registered User Join Date: Nov 2013 Location: ventura,CA Posts: 33	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. sweeet! what do i search to find these 1960's OEM clusters...I'm in CA __________________ Roll Tide! '69 C20 Longhorn 396

11-27-2013, 12:53 AM	#22
litew8 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Des Moines, Iowa Posts: 3,016	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. I agree, depending on what gauges you need, original are better. I bought new and compared the old OE oil pressure gauge with the new - no comparison, OE hands down built better. OE on top __________________ project: "my happy mess" Last edited by litew8; 11-27-2013 at 01:01 AM.



Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.

11-27-2013, 12:54 AM	#23
alloutpro Registered User Join Date: Nov 2013 Location: ventura,CA Posts: 33	Re: Aftermarket gauge clusters. what is a PM __________________ Roll Tide! '69 C20 Longhorn 396

Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.