[updated:LAST EDITED ON 26-Jul-02 AT 08:40 PM (EST)]I have a 79 F250 and want to make a custom instrument panel for it. I was thinking about Autometer Ultra-light gauges. I want a speedo,tach,water,alternator, and fuel gauges. Has anybody ever done this. I don't know what to make the instrument cluster out of. Sheet metal? Wood? any advice or tips will help. Should i use the mechanical or electrical gauges? What other gauges should i include? I was thinking about mounting the tach on the dash. Thanks

 

Fuel pressure would be nice to have, maybe transmission temp. I don't know what your dash looks like but a alumumium panel is easy to do. I like mechanical gauges because the needle sweeps a larger area. You get better resolution. To me, the mechancial gauges are just more robust. Only place I would use an electric is fuel pressure, don't want a leaking gas line in the dash.

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 27-Jul-02 AT 00:15 AM (EST)]I used to have a '78, so I'm picturing your dash. I would go with the speedo, tach (in dash and next to the speedo), fuel level, temp, oil pressure, and voltmeter in dash. You may also consider an under-dash console with additional gauges such as tranny temp, oil temp, and vacuum (though these wouldn't be critical). Personally, I prefer the mechanicals. While electrics are easier and more convenient to install, the mechanicals are far more accurate, and provide real-time information. It's nice to be idling at a traffic light, and instantaneously know your oil pressure and water temp. If you want to get a bit more trick, plumb a tee behind the gauge and install an idiot light sender that will trip a connection at, say, 8 psi for oil pressure or an appropriate temperature to indicate overheating. Rather than adding a light, wire in a beeper. If you get into trouble, this will give you an audible warning to alert you to check the gauge (it's more comforting than a starved lifter or knocking piston, at least!). Sheet metal would be a good choice as a backer for the dash. You can polish unfinished stainless steel (though pricey) or aluminum, or purchase a thicker gauge galvanized piece and cover it with countertop laminate. I'm a fan of this..... it's more work, but the possibilities and options are endless. And, you can fabricate a matching piece to cover that flat glove box door. You can also purchase bulk black plastic of the type used to fabricate radio faceplates, etc. if you wanted. One last thought on the mechanical gauges..... if you go that route, do yourself a favor. Don't shortcut the lines that feed the gauges from the engine. I know many are using nylon with good luck, and if you cut it right there's no reason it won't work well. However, there's nothing uglier than a gauge puking oil or coolant all over the back of your dash panel. Do consider copper tubing or braided steel lines for this purpose; both are readily available. Good luck with your project!

 

Look in the tech article section of thgis website. There is an article about a custom dash. Read that and maybe you can get some ideas on materials.
Russell
1968 F250 LWB 300-6
FORD=First on Race Day
mopar=Mostly Old Parts and Rust
gmc=Got a Mechanic Comming
chevrolet= Cracked Head Every Valve Replaced, Owe a Little, Except its Trash