I'm looking for some new gauges for my 79. The only ones that work now are the speedo (when the trucks cold I have to get to about 45 before the needle moves and then it bounces around a minute before settling in) and the fuel gauge. I think the oil and block temp gauge don't work because over they 2 years I've had the truck I don't think they've ever moved. They just sit right in the middle. I'm not sure if the odometer works, I'm pretty sure the last time I looked it was on 54,3something and it's still there now. I'll pay more attention tomorrow.

My question is what do I need to know to replace these gauges with some cool after market ones? The gauges housing itself is already messed up from the po installing a afternarket radio so I'm just gonna cut out the gauge cluster and get some stained word in there. I'm guessing the old gauges are mechanical so does that mean I have to find a new set that will be compatible with the old or not? How big of a job would it be setting up the new set? What could be wrong with thee the old set and am I gonna have to fix that when I install new ones? The truck is a stick so I'm gonna need a good sized tack, that's on the column at the moment. How hard would it be to get a old style clock set in there too? My radio doesn't display time.

 

There are a few companies out there. Sun, Equis to name a couple. You will find more from coming responses. I've installed new gauges as replacements. Installed a volt meter instead of an ammeter. No matter what you pick, be sure to install that model's sending unit. Works wonders when you do.

 

Have you seen the Dakota Digital gauges1973 - 79 Ford Pickup VHX Instruments They are a little on the pricey side but they look better than original and you can get add on modules for just about any gauge you want and it even has a clock.

 

Okay so each model will have its own sending unit? Do I just install them in the originals place or what?

And bigone, you're right. Those are kinda expensive! I do like the 4 in 1 setup they have, seems like it would save a lot of room.

 

Most gauges you buy will have sending units where applicable (water temp, oil press, etc). I chose to go all electric units. As far as mounting, that's up to you and your abilities. If you do a search with the words 'dash' 'instrument' or 'gauge', you should find a couple of threads where you can see different dash installs.