This is where i want to mount my gauges, 1 on each side of the steering column,


Pulled the dash while ago and i dont think they will fit, not enough space behind the dash plate. I know i have seen some pictures somewhere where someone did this, But where? I cant find it or remember it.Anyone know? I really wanted to do this, but wanna make sure they will fit before i cut a hole for them, hate to cut a hole and they not fit, that would really SUK.
I know there is some kind of insert for mounting gauges like this, called a dash pod I think,, Didnt wanna have to do it like that. It looks as though there is only about and Inch behind the grey part and the glass for the speedometer area, so they wouldnt fit flush, and anything less than flush wouldnt look right. If ya'll can point me in the right direction it would be a BIG help, And very much appreciated..!!

Did talk to Jolee (i think was her name) at motorhaven today and my gauges will be here friday. She was a very nice lady,, Oh and if you order a pyrometer from motorhaven they DO NOT come with the thermocouple, 50 bucks from Isspro for the clamp on style.but motorhaven has the best price on the gauges,, I looked everywhere..

 

autometer has a gauge bezel that goes where you are talking about, one gauge on each side of steering wheel.

 

Yeah thats the one i was talking about,, Dont really wanna go that route. I know i seen where someone had mounted their gauges on each side of the steering wheel like i want to do, Just cant find where, or how..!!!

 

If I'm thinking correctly, I think Catman might have the setup your looking for. He's running 6 additional gauges from stock, last I knew. I'm jealous!!!

 

Do a search on cat_man 963 and look in his gallery, he might have something similar to what you want.

 

Autometer part # 15003
I would go this route rather then drilling huge holes in dash...

 

I dont know if this is exactly what you are thinking of, but half way down the page there is an Instrument Console Bezel, you can click on the picture to see it installed. Also right below that, there is a triple pod that mounts right below the cubby hole in the dash. hopefully this helps some.

 

I have seen the instrument bezels,, Didnt really want to have to go that route. Had to give back the borrowed gauges i was using, they were in the under dash pod,, Didnt like having to look down with that one. Now i feel like i am driving around Naked without my gauges..!!! Anyone actually seen one of these instrument bexels installed? All i have seen is pictures and really dont like the way it looks at all, Maybe if it was painted to match it might be better? Really at a loss right now,, Thought for sure i could mount my gauges on each side of the steering wheel, not looking good at this point..
Thanx for all the help so far,, Much appreciated for sure..

 

I installed a 2 1/16" VDO OP gauge on the right side in the area you want to use. I used a 2" hole saw and the gauge fit snug enough a clamp wasn't needed. The only problem is the steering wheel partially covers the gauge. I don't have to monitor the pressure constantly, so it doesn't present a problem. I remember someone had a pic awhile back of one on the other side. If you want I will try to take a picture and post it tomorrow. There is enough room on both sides. You just want to be careful. My first hole was with a 1/8" drill bit. Just for location.

 

i mounted a two inch gauge on the right side of the steering wheel and there was enough room, but you have to make sure you got it in the right spot, cause if you are a little too close to the steering wheel you wont have enough room. i wanted to put the gauge on the left side but there seemed to be a metal bar running there that prevented me installing it. i was alittle leary about drilling a hole in the dash, but everthing worked ok.

 

I really appreciate all the responses.Any pictures would be a big help also. Sounds like the right side isnt a problem from all the people who have them mounted there, its the left side that sounds like a problem. i dont remember seeing a bar on the left side,, I'll have to pull the dash and look again. I to am very cautious when it comes to drilling holes, I'll probably start with a 1/4 bit too..!!!

 

Any reason you dont want to do the A Pillar pod

 

I just dont like the Pillar pod,, been in several trucks with them and they are very visible for sure,, I just dont care for it. That and i like to be different, not often do you see anyone with gauges mounted in the dash, kinda cool i think, just not sure i can do it yet.. I do know one thing,, i gotta do something soon, hate not having my gauges, Just dont feel right..

 

The VDO gauge uses a spin on collar to hold the gauge. Although I didn't use it for mounting, when the pilot hole was drilled I used it on the inside to check for clearance. You could make a template out of paper, the diameter of the gauge, for the same purpose. It could also be taped to the face side to check for location and visibility behind the wheel. The left side is probably better for a full face gauge. Between the gear shift lever and the steering wheel, the right side has a limited viewing area.

 

Gauge pics are in my gallery.