1960 instrument cluster installation problem.

[Jason Upshaw]

Hi everyone,

About six months ago, I took the instrument cluster out of my 1960 for repainting and gauge restoration. I began to try to put the cluster back in this weekend and for some reason, I can't get the boltholes in the rear of the cluster to realign with the holes in the dash area itself. There are no wires in the way, and the cables aren't in a bind. Also, the wear marks on each side of the dash pad where the cluster touches it align perfectly, but the bolt holes in the rear are about 1/8" of an inch off. I have never seen anything like this before and any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks, Jason

[John M.]

Re: 1960 instrument cluster installation problem.

Jason, this is pretty common. Thedash pad has expanded with the cluster out and you will just have to pound the cluster back with the palm of your hand until you compress the pad. Get a couple of front bolts in first,as it will be easier to hold the clusted back once you get it aligned. John

[Loren L.]

Re: 1960 instrument cluster installation problem.

1/8" is NOT a problem. Crawl underneath with two small drift punches (small phillips screwdriver will do), stick punches through the hole in the fiberglass up into the threaded holes of the cluster, leverage into position and install a bolt in one of the other holes - do not tighten all the way until you have a bolt in every hole.