So now that my seats are in I am starting to look at steering columns and gauges for my '53. Gauge pricing is all over the map. So what should I stay away from or go towards? Brands? This is a total dark side custom so almost anything goes. The only thing for sure is I don't want the alum. panel that just bolts on the surface. I have seen a recessed plate that looks good from Mid Fifty though. For steering columns, same thing here. I think I seen somewhere that I should use Flaming River or Ididit columns only, the rest have issues. Probably go with a painted column unless a good price for a chrome one shows up.
Thanks
Marten

 

As far as gauges go I used Autometer and I've been very satisfied with them. They came complete with all the senders and have worked flawlessly. As far as the panel, I just used a piece of scrap cherry that I had in the wood pile. Wood may not be your cup of tea. I'm of no help on a column since I'm a junkyard shopper for parts like that.

 

If you are going custom you can fill your dash however you like, put holes wherever you like, you can even swap out the whole dash. I filled my factory holes and made new ones for Marshall gauges in truck #2. I have Marshalls for truck #1 as well but in a different style. I am running a VSS so having a programmable speedometer made things easier, I have it dead on with my GPS read speed.
I have a phobia about using an aftermarket steering column, just not willing to risk it. I stick with OEM columns that I know will not fall apart in my hand.