Need to make a decision on gauges for my 69. Thinking about semi custom or full custom. I know I don't want the stock look.Lets see some pics or recommendations Please. Thanks in advance.

 

I am a Dakota digital dealer and well I like the VHX style, enough that's whats in my car..

 

Just fitted all new Autometer Phantom gauges to my buddy's '68 Camaro. Used the stock dash insert for tach and speedo, and a '67 console pod to accept the round Autometer gauges. Only problem I saw was the factory pod is a 3 gauge unit, so had to decide what didn't get a gauge. He opted to omit a volt meter. The pod got oil pressure, temperature, and fuel level.

 

I've got a '69 as well Mike, and like you I'm debating about which way to go because while my entire interior is new from carpets to seats, to door panels to headliner and dash pad... the bezel is the original and it looks scruffy compared to everything else.

My biggest question would be to go semi traditional with digital implants in a new OER bezel and a console setup. OTH, you can put everything into a new custom bezel. Here's a few examples:



Thats the Dakota setup.


I think this one is AutoMeter.


Thats a Custom Billet insert.


That one is from ClassicIndustries.

I have different hang-ups with all of them LOL. For instance... I'd probably jump on the Dakota bandwagon if they had a _matching_ clock module that would fit in the center pod thats usually left blank. The analog clock was an option back in the day, and what better way to make a more complete package that to have a module that fits the center section. Could also be a wide band, could be a combo with an analog looking digital clock that also had outside temp and maybe a compass at the bottom?

Size of the display is also an issue. In the case of analog type gauges, these cars need a really good-sized speedo-tach setup, at least as big as the OEM units. At this point, I have a Sun-Pro tack on the column, Sun-Pro gauges under the dash. They get the job done, but they don't look good.

Mike

 

Funny I pick up my car on Wednesday all done. I will take some pics.

 

I decided to do the full cluster approach. Bought the carbon fiber '69 insert, now I'm trying to decide whether to go with New Vintage, Dakota Digital VHX, or Autometer. My biggest concerns are getting accurate speedo readings which all three have gps options, and then there's the assorted accessory/idiot lights. I mocked up a Photoshop version to see how it could look.



That's the New Vision USA 69 Series for classic musclecars. Good-looking, with a nice matching 270 degree sweep. Excellent readability for all six gauges.



The above version shows the DD Universal 6-gauge setup. This is all they have, in either black or aluminum faced gauges that include a large 4-5/8" speedo & tach. Note that they do have directional and high beam leds. Not bad but the readability of the 4 small gauges seems poor.