C3 ('68) guage cluster removal

[Pete G.]

The oil guage hose on my 68 is leaking inside the firewall and needs replacement. I assume I'll need to remove the guage cluster panel, are there any instructions I can referrence to remove the guage cluster panel? I see a good write up from John Hinckley for the C2, does anyone have this type of write up for the C3?

Thanks!

[Joseph K.]

Re: C3 ('68) guage cluster removal

The oil guage hose on my 68 is leaking inside the firewall and needs replacement. I assume I'll need to remove the guage cluster panel, are there any instructions I can referrence to remove the guage cluster panel? I see a good write up from John Hinckley for the C2, does anyone have this type of write up for the C3?

Thanks!

Pete the easiest thing to do is to remove the pannel to the right of the cluster and the pannel under the cluster on the right hand side. You can reach the fitting on the gauge at his point and pull it through the firewall.

You need to fix this asap before it ruins your radio if it hasn't already. Also check to make sure it is not the gauge leaking. when changing the tubing make sure you use the same fittings as I had a leak due to using fittings that seamed to work but were wrong.

TO remove the gauge cluster there are bolts on the bottom that are a @##@@*** to get to. try to do it with out removing the cluster.

Joe

[Pete G.]

Re: C3 ('68) guage cluster removal

Thanks Joe. I will purchase a oil line kit from CC, I assume the fittings will be correct on the new unit but will match up to the fittings I remove. Another question, do I need to use some type of sealent around the threads, and if so, what type is best?

Thanks!

[Terry M.]

Re: C3 ('68) guage cluster removal

Thanks Joe. I will purchase a oil line kit from CC, I assume the fittings will be correct on the new unit but will match up to the fittings I remove. Another question, do I need to use some type of sealent around the threads, and if so, what type is best?

Thanks!

The factory used no sealant on the threads of the oil line, but then they knew the fittings were the correct ones for the application. If the fittings are not correct no amount of sealant will help stem the oil flow.

You might consider consulting a Chevrolet Chassis Service Manual (CSM) for instructions to remove the instrument panel. The Assembly Instruction Manual (AIM) will also be an aid due to the drawings contained in there. None of us on here can type enough words to help you with this project. You need to see where the "hidden" bolts, nuts and screws are. Both books are available from the "NCRS Store." Just click on the "radio button" at the top of the page and let your mouse do the walking.

[Dennis O.]

Re: C3 ('68) guage cluster removal

It probably doesn't need to be said, but I'll say it anyway. The gauge clusters themselves are quite fragile, so be careful when working on it. (They tend to break at the thin area above where the radio mounts.) The '68 clusters are not like the later model ones (they have the smooth finish) and originals are almost impossible to find. They are re-popped, but I've never seen one so I can't say anything about quality. I'll have to agree with Joseph about the bottom bolts. Make sure everything lines up perfectly before tightening the bolts and screws when you put it back together. A little to tight on a misaligned cluster and you will hear a very expensive "craaack". Don't ask me how I know.

[Jim T.]

Re: C3 ('68) guage cluster removal

Pete I removed the radio from my 68 convertible for repair. The oil pressure line and connection to the oil pressure guage can be removed with the radio out of the way to give accessibility. My 68's original factory installed position of the oil pressure line connects to a 90 degree elbow fitting from the oil pressure guage.

My radio removal procedure is not in the service manual. I remove the emergency brake console piece and with all the screws removed from the guage panel and screws securing the shifter console I move the shifter console with the guage panel attached back just enough to get the radio out.