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Old 01-31-2009, 12:40 PM   #1
rick1956
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Another post about gauges

Okay, I haven't attacked and investigated yet so I thought I'd ask here first. I want some input before I spring for some gauges I can't use.

I've got a plain ol' 84 half ton with all idiot lights. Yes, each of the round spots in the left side of the dash panel is filled with a lovely, stupid red circle of red plastic.

My question: Won't a standard 2-inch gauge fit into the steel "shell" under the bezel that the red plastic lens' are attached to? I've got the bezel off and it sure looks like it...

If so I can't help but wonder why everyone ends up 'glassing the backs of their bezels and installing them there. Perhaps only the idiot light versions have that steel shell with the round openings in it?

Opinions?
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Old 01-31-2009, 01:19 PM   #2
dswancutt
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Re: Another post about gauges

No, the shape is the same, but the circuit board and the plastic is molded different for the gage cluster. Not exactly sure about an 84, but I know that for 78 & 79, the way the wires are arranged in the wiring plug that plugs into the cluster are different between a idiot light and full gage cluster. I think, but don't hold me to this, that the sending units for oil and water temp are different.

Doug
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Old 01-31-2009, 01:45 PM   #3
rick1956
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Re: Another post about gauges

Whoops, guess I didn't make myself totally clear.

I'm planning on installing aftermarket 2" gauges, so I'm just wondering about the physical fit within the panel.

Sorry for the confusion...
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Old 01-31-2009, 02:52 PM   #4
James McClure
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Re: Another post about gauges

Rick. I've got an 84 K20 with the guages and the shell under the face plate is plastic not steel. Thats why you hear about guys glassing the back of the bezel. The guages will physically fit right in, but without the glass for support you can't use them. jim
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Old 01-31-2009, 05:39 PM   #5
PhilaTruck
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Re: Another post about gauges

Hey Rick:

One of the board members has a great "how-to" on aftermarket guage installs.

73-87.com (interior/gauges_recessed)

It's a great way to improve your truck and I wish you the best-

-Todd
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