Gauges.... Who, What, Where? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

SCOTI · 11-20-2005, 01:01 AM

I've been researching some replacement gauges for the 74.

What I want is something along the lines of Autometer accurracy w/o the freaking 200mph speedo or 10,000rpm tach w/the 1" tall numbers across the face because it only has a stock 74 350ci engine. I'm looking for something a little more subtle.

I looked @ Redline Gaugeworks & they have some cool stuff but nothing along the lines of replacement guages that will fit a stock 74 guage bezel. VDO? I can't seem to find much selection. Classic Instruments also seems to have some nice stuff but the web-site is a little slim on certain size/color details.

Any suggestions on other manufacturers? Likes/dis-likes?

**N2TRUX** · 11-20-2005, 01:41 AM

So you don't like this look? It has to be the nicest way to intergrate aftermarket gauges with a 73-87 dash I have ever seen....

SCOTI · 11-20-2005, 01:53 AM

Yes, they do look good . . . ... just not the right look for my 74. Those 1" tall numbers just scream "look @ me". I would rather something you might not notice.

Ken, you of all people gotta admit those Autometers, even though they look cool, would look very out of place in your truck. Same scenario w/my truck.

**N2TRUX** · 11-20-2005, 01:56 PM

I agree. I just thought you might want to revisit that idea. That's exactly why I went with a restored OEM dash. I couldn't find anything aftermarket that didn't look aftermarket.

Just build a stock dash...

benoit454 · 11-20-2005, 04:59 PM

Hey anyone have some details on that setup? like what was used or how they got them mounted? I like and and want to put something like that in the 86.

boxrodz · 11-20-2005, 05:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by benoit454

Hey anyone have some details on that setup? like what was used or how they got them mounted? I like and and want to put something like that in the 86.

Check out the 73-87 site that Jeff maintains. A lot of real good information.

If you look in the 'Garage' section, you'll find the details on how to surface mount or recess aftermarket gauges. Good luck.

boxrodz · 11-20-2005, 06:00 PM

It seems autometer has the largest selection of gauges. Classic Instruments seem to popular for the classic/antique look. VDO used to be real popular. A couple of other sites that you might want to try are Stewart Warner and Haneline. The Teleflex Chrome Amega may be something that may interest you. Their Haneline elite is similar, but I'm not too sure 'bout the 'inverted swoosh' graphic on the gauge face.

(But, I guess it's better than the dolphin stamp the the face of the Dolphin gauges.

)

I know what you mean 'bout the 200 mph gauges and high RPM gauges. It all good for the track, but as a cruiser ??? BTW, did you see the Autometer's Designer Black series. They're subtle in design. But, IMO, the Haneline's Teleflex Chrome Amega look good.

SCOTI · 11-20-2005, 06:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by boxrodz

It seems autometer has the largest selection of gauges. Classic Instruments seem to popular for the classic/antique look. VDO used to be real popular. A couple of other sites that you might want to try are Stewart Warner and Haneline. The Teleflex Chrome Amega may be something that may interest you. Their Haneline elite is similar, but I'm not too sure 'bout the 'inverted swoosh' graphic on the gauge face.

(But, I guess it's better than the dolphin stamp the the face of the Dolphin gauges.

)

I know what you mean 'bout the 200 mph gauges and high RPM gauges. It all good for the track, but as a cruiser ??? BTW, did you see the Autometer's Designer Black series. They're subtle in design. But, IMO, the Haneline's Teleflex Chrome Amega look good.

I forgot about Haneline gauges so I'll do some web surfing on them.

For now, my current choice is the Classic Instruments 'Hot Rod Series' which can be viewed @ www.classicinstruments.com under the 'Our Products' icon & selecting 'Instrument Series' & scroll down through the list/pics. The SG Series wouldn't look bad if I had them do the custom color option to a tan color but I'm afraid to find out what the cost would be.

I sent an e-mail request w/some P/N's for pricing so we'll see how much they are.

**Zoomad75** · 11-21-2005, 09:03 PM

I'm going with an updated OEM dash. I've got a full gauge cluster (with tach) out of a 77 that I plan on using in my 75. Mine is going to be a hybrid of the two years as I plan on keeping my mechanical oil pressure gauge and have to omit the stock ammeter for a voltmeter. My only beef is that I don't like the OEM font for the letters/numbers used. I've been thinking about coming up with my own gauge overlay with a better looking font (think Silverado SS cluster or an Escalade Font). Still White letters on Black backgrounds just updated and subtle. I've seen the white face overlay's on ebay and just can't stand white gauges. Screams "ricer" to me.

Got to do a lot of planning on the layout for accuracy but I think it's doable.. Just need a couple of junk gauges to practice on....

boxrodz · 11-22-2005, 02:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SCOTI

I forgot about Haneline gauges so I'll do some web surfing on them.

For now, my current choice is the Classic Instruments 'Hot Rod Series' which can be viewed @ www.classicinstruments.com under the 'Our Products' icon & selecting 'Instrument Series' & scroll down through the list/pics. The SG Series wouldn't look bad if I had them do the custom color option to a tan color but I'm afraid to find out what the cost would be.

I sent an e-mail request w/some P/N's for pricing so we'll see how much they are.

The Classic Instruments' Hot Rod series don't look too bad. I like the trim ring profile... very classic look. I guess they would have to be surface mounted to show. The G/Stock series don't look too bad either. (But, not quite as subtle.)

A custom color would be unique, but you're probably right 'bout the $$$. It looks like there's a inner ring (just inside of the chrome trim ring. Maybe, a custom color could be just applied to it to ascent the gauges and complement your interior.

74 shorty · 11-22-2005, 09:19 AM

I think dakotadigital has a digital dash that looks goo and really doesn't look out of place. I comes in four or five colors but wallet draing at I think $4-500 sending units and all but you still have to use youre bezel.

**Captkaos** · 11-23-2005, 12:43 PM

The Dakota Digital's aren't what SCOTI is looking for, but I have them for $485.95 + $20 shipping.
http://www.73-87chevytrucks.com/merc...tegory_Code=7G

84 PUMPKIN · 11-23-2005, 09:33 PM

On a stock/mild custom truck it's hard to beat the look of a factory cluster. My favorite is the C40-C60 cluster with the tach/fuel gauge built together. That leaves the bottom left hole open for a clock, air gauge, or a vaccum gauge. I just finished one of these about a month ago for a friend of mine and it looks killer in his '75 K10.
On a pro street/hotrod truck the Autometers look really nice. I've done them in two or three trucks and they look right at home with rollbars and air shifters.
On a full custom/show truck the Dakota gauges look pretty cool. I helped a friend install his and they turned out nice. They really look good at night.

Those are my thoughts for what they're worth.

**N2TRUX** · 11-23-2005, 11:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 84 PUMPKIN

On a stock/mild custom truck it's hard to beat the look of a factory cluster. My favorite is the C40-C60 cluster with the tach/fuel gauge built together. That leaves the bottom left hole open for a clock, air gauge, or a vaccum gauge. I just finished one of these about a month ago for a friend of mine and it looks killer in his '75 K10.

Yeah, I wish I had done that to my 77 dash. You got any pics....

1980chevy4x4 · 11-24-2005, 12:11 AM

What are the 3 LEDs for?

**swervin ervin** · 11-24-2005, 12:43 AM

The LED's are for my park brake, high beams and choke light, respectively, left to right. After installing the gauges, the stock ones are gone. I have now moved them to a better looking location since I installed a floor shifter and had some place to put them. I also didn't want to start drilling holes in my billet bezel.

laynlow77 · 11-24-2005, 06:04 AM

i love my dakota digitals...the just look so clean! i also really like the autometers...by the way that is a very good price on the dakota digitals when i bought mine i couldnt find em for much less than 600

**AspecialZ** · 11-24-2005, 06:06 PM

heres my setup from tpi

84slopwaggin · 11-25-2005, 12:10 AM

whats the web address for tpi? That whole setup looks good. Whats the cost?

boxrodz · 11-25-2005, 01:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AspecialZ

heres my setup from tpi

A..Z-
Those Streamliners look cool, glass fronts and all.

And, they even carry quartz clocks.

Quote:

Originally Posted by 84slopwaggin

whats the web address for tpi? That whole setup looks good. Whats the cost?

84Slop-
Try TPITech Instruments at http://www.tpigauges.com/. The list price are included on their site.

**AspecialZ** · 11-25-2005, 01:23 AM

I'd say $269.00 http://www.tpigauges.com/

SCOTI · 11-25-2005, 03:02 AM

Ooohhhhh, I like the basic 'Black Gauge' set. I'm going to call the toll free line & get some info.

But . . ..... First I must ask.... how come they're so inexpensive for gauges vs. other manufacturers? Has anyone used them in a vehicle for any length of time to make a qualified assessment on their function? I've always been told if it looks to good to be true, it usually is.

AspecialZ, keep us updated once you get them installed & give us your real world feedback. Is that a Covans gauge panel in that pic?

**N2TRUX** · 11-25-2005, 11:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AspecialZ

heres my setup from tpi

I like those

SSC's76 · 11-25-2005, 01:59 PM

The TPI setup is awsome, only problem is your going to need the coulm to match now.

I sure do love having a vacuum gauge, it helps me know when my truck isnt running it's best.

SCOTI · 11-25-2005, 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SSC's76

The TPI setup is awsome, only problem is your going to need the coulm to match now.

Could you elaborate on your statement? What needs to be changed w/the column?

11-20-2005, 01:01 AM	#1
SCOTI Registered User Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: DALLAS,TX Posts: 22,025	Gauges.... Who, What, Where? I've been researching some replacement gauges for the 74. What I want is something along the lines of Autometer accurracy w/o the freaking 200mph speedo or 10,000rpm tach w/the 1" tall numbers across the face because it only has a stock 74 350ci engine. I'm looking for something a little more subtle. I looked @ Redline Gaugeworks & they have some cool stuff but nothing along the lines of replacement guages that will fit a stock 74 guage bezel. VDO? I can't seem to find much selection. Classic Instruments also seems to have some nice stuff but the web-site is a little slim on certain size/color details. Any suggestions on other manufacturers? Likes/dis-likes? __________________ 67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Recycle 89CCDually-Driver/Tow Truck 99CCSWB Driver All Fleetsides @rattlecankustoms in IG Building a small, high rpm engine with the perfect bore, stroke and rod ratio is very impressive. It's like a highly skilled Morrocan sword fighter with a Damascus Steel Scimitar..... *Cubic inches is like Indiana Jones with a cheap pistol.*

11-20-2005, 01:41 AM	#2
N2TRUX Happy to be here Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Cypress, TX Posts: 39,023	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? So you don't like this look? It has to be the nicest way to intergrate aftermarket gauges with a 73-87 dash I have ever seen.... __________________ Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @N2trux.com Articles- "Jake" the 84 to 74 crewcab "Elwood" the77_Remix 85 GMC Sierra "Scarlett" "Refining Sierra" Last edited by N2TRUX; 11-20-2005 at 01:44 AM.

11-20-2005, 01:53 AM	#3
SCOTI Registered User Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: DALLAS,TX Posts: 22,025	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? Yes, they do look good . . . ... just not the right look for my 74. Those 1" tall numbers just scream "look @ me". I would rather something you might not notice. Ken, you of all people gotta admit those Autometers, even though they look cool, would look very out of place in your truck. Same scenario w/my truck. __________________ 67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Recycle 89CCDually-Driver/Tow Truck 99CCSWB Driver All Fleetsides @rattlecankustoms in IG Building a small, high rpm engine with the perfect bore, stroke and rod ratio is very impressive. It's like a highly skilled Morrocan sword fighter with a Damascus Steel Scimitar..... *Cubic inches is like Indiana Jones with a cheap pistol.*

11-20-2005, 01:56 PM	#4
N2TRUX Happy to be here Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Cypress, TX Posts: 39,023	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? I agree. I just thought you might want to revisit that idea. That's exactly why I went with a restored OEM dash. I couldn't find anything aftermarket that didn't look aftermarket. Just build a stock dash... __________________ Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @N2trux.com Articles- "Jake" the 84 to 74 crewcab "Elwood" the77_Remix 85 GMC Sierra "Scarlett" "Refining Sierra"

11-20-2005, 04:59 PM	#5
benoit454 Chris Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Monaville, WV Posts: 3,737	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? Hey anyone have some details on that setup? like what was used or how they got them mounted? I like and and want to put something like that in the 86. __________________ Chris GIT R DONE!!!!!! Check out all our rides, http://www.cardomain.com/id/benwa454

11-20-2005, 06:00 PM	#7
boxrodz Until Seventy Times Seven Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Rocky Mountain Front Range Posts: 1,301	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? It seems autometer has the largest selection of gauges. Classic Instruments seem to popular for the classic/antique look. VDO used to be real popular. A couple of other sites that you might want to try are Stewart Warner and Haneline. The Teleflex Chrome Amega may be something that may interest you. Their Haneline elite is similar, but I'm not too sure 'bout the 'inverted swoosh' graphic on the gauge face. (But, I guess it's better than the dolphin stamp the the face of the Dolphin gauges. ) I know what you mean 'bout the 200 mph gauges and high RPM gauges. It all good for the track, but as a cruiser ??? BTW, did you see the Autometer's Designer Black series. They're subtle in design. But, IMO, the Haneline's Teleflex Chrome Amega look good. __________________ boxRODz 1983 C10 SWB Fleetside When two halves is gone, there's nuthin left. Two nothings is nuthin. That's mathematics son. You can argue with me but you can't argue with figures. Two half nothings is a whole nuthin...

11-21-2005, 09:03 PM	#9
Zoomad75 K5Camper Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Pueblo, CO Posts: 1,513	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? I'm going with an updated OEM dash. I've got a full gauge cluster (with tach) out of a 77 that I plan on using in my 75. Mine is going to be a hybrid of the two years as I plan on keeping my mechanical oil pressure gauge and have to omit the stock ammeter for a voltmeter. My only beef is that I don't like the OEM font for the letters/numbers used. I've been thinking about coming up with my own gauge overlay with a better looking font (think Silverado SS cluster or an Escalade Font). Still White letters on Black backgrounds just updated and subtle. I've seen the white face overlay's on ebay and just can't stand white gauges. Screams "ricer" to me. Got to do a lot of planning on the layout for accuracy but I think it's doable.. Just need a couple of junk gauges to practice on....

11-22-2005, 09:19 AM	#11
74 shorty Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Bowling Green, Mo Posts: 98	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? I think dakotadigital has a digital dash that looks goo and really doesn't look out of place. I comes in four or five colors but wallet draing at I think $4-500 sending units and all but you still have to use youre bezel.

11-23-2005, 12:43 PM	#12
Captkaos www.73-87chevytrucks.com Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Birmingham, AL Posts: 6,935	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? The Dakota Digital's aren't what SCOTI is looking for, but I have them for $485.95 + $20 shipping. http://www.73-87chevytrucks.com/merc...tegory_Code=7G __________________ Chris Lucas 1973 Chevy C-10 1978 GMC Jimmy (2WD) - SOLD 1987 R10 twin turbo LS 1991 R3500 SRW CrewCab 1985 K5 diesel swapped project 1989 K5 2WD conversion w/ Vette susp Project Captkaos Customs 73-87chevytrucks.com

11-23-2005, 09:33 PM	#13
84 PUMPKIN Registered User Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Alabama Posts: 166	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? On a stock/mild custom truck it's hard to beat the look of a factory cluster. My favorite is the C40-C60 cluster with the tach/fuel gauge built together. That leaves the bottom left hole open for a clock, air gauge, or a vaccum gauge. I just finished one of these about a month ago for a friend of mine and it looks killer in his '75 K10. On a pro street/hotrod truck the Autometers look really nice. I've done them in two or three trucks and they look right at home with rollbars and air shifters. On a full custom/show truck the Dakota gauges look pretty cool. I helped a friend install his and they turned out nice. They really look good at night. Those are my thoughts for what they're worth.

11-24-2005, 12:11 AM	#15
1980chevy4x4 Got Mud? Join Date: Sep 2003 Posts: 361	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? What are the 3 LEDs for? __________________ Dan Got mud?

11-24-2005, 12:43 AM	#16
swervin ervin You get what you pay for Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Cherryville, NC Posts: 4,798	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? The LED's are for my park brake, high beams and choke light, respectively, left to right. After installing the gauges, the stock ones are gone. I have now moved them to a better looking location since I installed a floor shifter and had some place to put them. I also didn't want to start drilling holes in my billet bezel. Attached Images __________________ Mike 1985 Chevy C-10

11-24-2005, 06:04 AM	#17
laynlow77 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 115	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? i love my dakota digitals...the just look so clean! i also really like the autometers...by the way that is a very good price on the dakota digitals when i bought mine i couldnt find em for much less than 600

11-24-2005, 06:06 PM	#18
AspecialZ Street Rod Restoration Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Wellsburg, WV Posts: 882	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? heres my setup from tpi Attached Images __________________ Follow me on Instagram @ hot_rod_shop

11-25-2005, 12:10 AM	#19
84slopwaggin Registered User Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Ar Posts: 558	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? whats the web address for tpi? That whole setup looks good. Whats the cost?



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11-25-2005, 01:23 AM	#21
AspecialZ Street Rod Restoration Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Wellsburg, WV Posts: 882	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? I'd say $269.00 http://www.tpigauges.com/ __________________ Follow me on Instagram @ hot_rod_shop

11-25-2005, 03:02 AM	#22
SCOTI Registered User Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: DALLAS,TX Posts: 22,025	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? Ooohhhhh, I like the basic 'Black Gauge' set. I'm going to call the toll free line & get some info. But . . ..... First I must ask.... how come they're so inexpensive for gauges vs. other manufacturers? Has anyone used them in a vehicle for any length of time to make a qualified assessment on their function? I've always been told if it looks to good to be true, it usually is. AspecialZ, keep us updated once you get them installed & give us your real world feedback. Is that a Covans gauge panel in that pic? __________________ 67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Recycle 89CCDually-Driver/Tow Truck 99CCSWB Driver All Fleetsides @rattlecankustoms in IG Building a small, high rpm engine with the perfect bore, stroke and rod ratio is very impressive. It's like a highly skilled Morrocan sword fighter with a Damascus Steel Scimitar..... *Cubic inches is like Indiana Jones with a cheap pistol.* Last edited by SCOTI; 11-25-2005 at 03:02 AM.

11-25-2005, 01:59 PM	#24
SSC's76 No No Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Pueblo Colorado Posts: 1,781	Re: Gauges.... Who, What, Where? The TPI setup is awsome, only problem is your going to need the coulm to match now. I sure do love having a vacuum gauge, it helps me know when my truck isnt running it's best. Attached Images __________________ 1976 Custom Deluxe SWB Med FMB.3/4 Drop. Gen VI 454, Muncie HD 3 speed With Modified OE Hurst Shifter, 3.73 12 bolt, GMPP HO roller cam, Hooker headers, Performer intake with modified Q-jet, Accel distributor. Best 1/4 12.3 @108. Funnest run 19.84 @88 full 1/4 mile burn out. 1997 K1500 ext cab 5.7 stock except muffler Last edited by SSC's76; 11-25-2005 at 02:00 PM.

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