Need to replace 1969 oil guage

[Dan M.]

I need to replace my oil pressure gauge (stopped working) on an all original 1969 roadster. I have a NOS gauge in hand that will be the replacement. I would like to disturb the minimum amount of dash and fasteners as possible. Any suggestions and or thoughts would be most appreciated.
Thanks in Advance for your feedback
Dan 35068

[Jack H.]

Re: Need to replace 1969 oil guage

Doing it by the book, you have to pull the entire center cluster (a PITA), but that's life... Also, when doing this R&R job, pay attention to the warning note in the Chassis Service Manual on care and handling of the center cluster.

There are intentional 'weak' spots in the cluster's bezel designed to sacrificially fracture in the event of a head-on collision. When you grab and pull the cluster to free it from the surrounding & overhead dash, you CAN break it!

To get the oil pressure gauge out, you have to remove the holding nut from the back side of the cluster, then slide the gauge out from the front. With the assembled cluster in-car, the front bezel thwarts removal.

Mid-year cars are easier as the gauges surrounding the speedo/tach are mounted on discrete sub-panels that screw into the cluster assy and can be removed from the back side...

[Dick W.]

Re: Need to replace 1969 oil guage

Dan, more than likely all you need to do is lubricated the needle pivot points. Use something like gun oil to lubricate it. Gently move the needle, holding it by the base. This should be all you need to do.

[Kenneth L.]

Re: Need to replace oil guage

The oil pressure guage needle in my '72 LT-1 remains in the 12 o'clock postion, no matter what rpm I'm at. I have the replacement guage to install. I wonder if the needle could be stuck? It's just that if you have to go through the hassle of pulling the cluster, you might as well just replace it.