dash cluster

[Donald O.]

Re: dash cluster

Don,
I used SEM Trim Black.
Cleaning off the chrome around the bevels and script was a piece of cake.
One note: if you use the 1/4" rod method to reinstall the cluster be very careful not to scratch the paint around the cluster attaching bolts or you will need to do a little touch up around the holes. Lesson Learned!

I tried that trick for the removal, but I didn't care for it. Perhaps it will work better for the re-install. I actually used a set of 6" long 1/4-20 bolts, the threads only go about an inch or so and the rest in nice and smooth for an easy glide.
I found the biggest challenge was removing the connector for the ignition switch. It was after I got the cluster out that I learned the correct procedure for using the paper clip to remove the ignition switch still attached. 55 years of turning a wrench, and NOW I learn the damn trick? Aaarg!

[Michael M.]

Re: dash cluster

Looks great!
How did you protect the turn signal lenses, and other idiot lights between the tach and speedo?

[Donald O.]

Re: dash cluster

I disassembled everything so it was just the bare cluster casting. I replaced all of the filters, tubes and lenses in my cluster. My speedo is a speedwarning unit so the speedo and tach lenses were plastic and needed replacement and most of the filters were pretty faded. If you’re taking the cluster out, you might as well go through it and replace/refurbish everything as necessary – you don’t want to have to do it again anytime soon.

Did it about 22 years ago. My body was able to contort much easier then.

[Bill M.]

Re: dash cluster

Ralph / All
Finally painted dash on Sunday i used the exacto scrape method could not have been any easier. I will reassemble with all new gaskets filters ect.... this saturday. It was laying around the shop now i have to buy a car to put in !
Thanks Bill