Custom gauges.

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Jul 8, 2016 | 05:55 PM

bradphx

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From: Phoenix, Arizona

Custom gauges.

I am looking at replacing be stock instrument cluster with a custom set up. The issue I have is, I have no idea how to do it Haha. How do I set up a speedometer, temp, etc. anyone have a write up on this? I've looked in the tech info place but nothing there. Google came up empty too.

Jul 8, 2016 | 06:48 PM

monkey-1

Laughing Gas

Joined: Oct 2010

Posts: 1,238

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From: Clinton, MS

You can check out Dakota Digital:
1973- 79 Ford Pickup Digital Instrument System

Or Classic Dash:
Ford Truck 1973 -1979 - Classic Dash | Classic Dash

Jul 8, 2016 | 10:22 PM

gstirewalt

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Look here it what I purchased not installed yet
Dolphin Instruments and Gauges - Ford Truck Panels

Jul 9, 2016 | 06:59 AM

bradphx

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From: Phoenix, Arizona

I've seen those but what I meant is actually hooking up the instruments. Like do they just plug into the factory wires or do you have to run new ones?

Jul 9, 2016 | 10:10 AM

84espy

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Nov 2009

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Quote:

Originally Posted by bradphx

I've seen those but what I meant is actually hooking up the instruments. Like do they just plug into the factory wires or do you have to run new ones?

You will want to run a 12v positive and ground wire to all the gauges for activation, since the voltage requirement for stock gauges is different. You will also want to tap into the running light wire that went to the old instrument cluster. As far as sender units, use manufacturer units where possible. If you have mechanical sending units, you may want to upgrade to electric, as hook-ups are much easier. This may involve running wire to those points for hook-up. Some here may have used their present wires for the sending units. Don't be discouraged. It may take a whole day off to get this done. Good luck!

As a side note, if you change your gas gauge, the level will bounce up and down a bit, since it will have a constant display.

Jul 9, 2016 | 10:21 AM

4x4slik

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From: Chillicothe, IA

depends on a lot of things. But the short answer is no, your new gauges will not tie into your existing wiring harness. I would suggest downloading install directions for some after market gauges and seeing what is entailed in installation. Oil pressure and water temp are going to have there own sending units. Volt meter will need to be wired in. Gas gauge can be gotten to use existing sending unit in tank. Speedometer might use a cable, but most are electronic and you need to buy a kit to convert your mechanical drive to electronic. Any lights will need to be spliced into existing wiring somehow.

Again, i would find some gauges you like and download the install sheet for them and read.

Here is a search of this site with custom dash info: Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums - Search Results