DSE dash install FAQ

[6D9 Matt]

So I ordered a DSE dash (with heater provision), and I plan to install some speedhut gauges (4.5" tach and speedo, plus four 2 1/16" gauges). I guess Im just looking for some advice/tips when trying to layout the gauges and cut, etc. I plan to do all this before paint.

Also, I have seen some people are swapping out the left vent for an updated Vintage air vent? Or some using a smaller vent in order to make room for the gauges?

Any and all advice/pics/tips invited! Thanks guys.

[Richio1]

Hey Matt - been there done that... I've got some good stuff I can share on how I did mine. I'll post up details in a bit.

[6D9 Matt]

Great, thank you sir!

[Musclerodz]

Usually do a vintage air vent. makes it real easy

[Richio1]

I started with covering the dash in painter tape. I cut out circles the size of the gauges and played with the spacing and layout until I found what I liked. I them did a mock up in cardboard to make sure everything fit the way I wanted.

http://i855.photobucket.com/albums/ab116/Richio1/Camaro005.jpg (http://s855.photobucket.com/user/Richio1/media/Camaro005.jpg.html)

When you have the layout you want use a compass to trace the circles on the blue tape. I ordered hole saws off ebay to cut the holes. Make sure the have a pilot bit. Take your time and you will be fine. I test fit and needed to use a round file to smooth it out. For the Vintage Air controller and the VA vent I used a jig saw and cut from the back.


http://i855.photobucket.com/albums/ab116/Richio1/IMG_0981.jpg (http://s855.photobucket.com/user/Richio1/media/IMG_0981.jpg.html)

http://i855.photobucket.com/albums/ab116/Richio1/Pics029.jpg (http://s855.photobucket.com/user/Richio1/media/Pics029.jpg.html)

Get it wired up before paint. Not shown, I used black wire loom to clean it up more.

http://i855.photobucket.com/albums/ab116/Richio1/2012-04-22_16-48-25_331.jpg (http://s855.photobucket.com/user/Richio1/media/2012-04-22_16-48-25_331.jpg.html)

I had the dash painted Ralley Matte Black, got everything installed and ready to go. I also put a pigtail disconnect for easy removal which came in handy as I ended up switching to gauge lights to LED's. The regular ones just aren't bright enough. Keep that in mind if you haven't bought your gauges yet.

http://i855.photobucket.com/albums/ab116/Richio1/2013-01-03_08-54-17_515.jpg (http://s855.photobucket.com/user/Richio1/media/2013-01-03_08-54-17_515.jpg.html)

Hope that helps. Happy to answer any additional questions.

[craig510]

Dang that looks good!

[6D9 Matt]

Get it wired up before paint. Not shown, I used black wire loom to clean it up more.

Why is this? Wired up BEFORE paint?

[Richio1]

Just do all your prep work / mock up before you have it painted. Running the wires, soldering, disconnect and loom.

It's just less risk of chipping or scratching it after paint.

[lsuguy]

Just do all your prep work / mock up before you have it painted. Running the wires, soldering, disconnect and loom.

It's just less risk of chipping or scratching it after paint.

Where did you get your Wiper and Light switches/knobs from?

[dhutton]

Where did you get your Wiper and Light switches/knobs from?

Ridetech but they don't sell the black anodized ones any longer.

Don