67 gauge cluster lenses

[Justin N.]

Dear Members,
My speed-alert set-pin doesn't seem to stick out far enough to put back the knob. I thought the lenses are convex(bubble out towards driver)? Are they concave? Maybe I assembled something incorrectly inside. None of my manuals have help on cluster assemblies. Thank you much!

Justin #41362

[John H.]

Re: 67 gauge cluster lenses

Justin -

I received the response to that issue a couple of months ago from the good folks at Corvette Specialties of Maryland (below); it differs from the current description in the '67 TM&JG (convex lens orientation). I have submitted a request to consider revising the next edition of the TM&JG.

"Yes, the lenses were plastic. That means both of the Speedo and tach! They were also curved and installed in the manner that would make them appear concave. They were actually the same that was used in 63. The installation procedure was a little tricky with the lens bumpers installed in a different fashion.
Spacing was critical on the installed lens because of the height difference on the pointers. As you know, the pointer hubs were different and extended further out on this application. Very close to the lens I might add. Also, if the lenses were installed in a convex position, the knob would not install."

[Justin N.]

Re: 67 gauge cluster lenses

John,
Thank you much for the help! I have them currently installed incorrectly! I will flip them around. I understand the critical spacing because the lens scratching. The speedo is quite a "pain in the ass !" One has to set the lens and line it up with the speed-warning hole. This take several attempts. My original spacing bumpers and are hard, thin, black pieces that have pretty much disintigrated. I have used some 3M caulking strip that I can squish to desired thickness and it holds better too. Thanks again.

Justin #41362

[Joe C.]

Re: 67 gauge cluster lenses

John:

Does the reversed installation (lens curves inward) apply only to 1967? Speedo and tach only? How about '63-'66? I really never noticed if there is a diff for '67. I have always seen all lenses (speedo, tach, 4 small, clock) with the convex side out (concave side in). I'm confused.

Is this right:

Plastic lenses: Clock 63-67, speedo/tach 67, all 63.
Glass lenses: all exc clock 64-66, 4 small 67.
Lenses installed convex side out: all exc 67 speedo and tach.

Joe