GPS Speedometer

[grego]

Thanks to everyone for input on a GPS speedometer. I installed the Speedhut reverse 0-180 this weekend. The installation was quite easy and wiring very simple. The most difficult part was getting the securing ring on the inside of the dash properly threaded as there is not a lot of room to get your hands back there.

For my Superformance Mark 3 I did have to trim the securing ring threads on the speedometer itself as the diameter was slightly large to properly fit into the opening vacated by the original Smiths. That was a much better solution than making the opening larger, which would have been a project in itself. Because the ring and threads are plastic, it was a simple repeat process on the grinder to slowly grind the threads so they would fit tightly and still enough meat on them for the ring to secure the speedo to the panel.

While the Speedo is a very close replica to the Smiths, there are some very subtle differences in appearance. The bezel is a little different, not much, but noticeable for Most Cobra afficiandos. And the odometer display looks more like those you see on the Kirkhams. Lighting at night is a little brighter than the other Smiths gauges, but I like it as it really shows up nicely at night.

In spite of this, I'm very happy with the look and functionality. It secures the GPS signal in less than a minute at startup ( I chose not to use the hot start wiring feature that aquifers the signal in seconds as I usually let the engine warm up before driving and didn't see the benefit ), and is smooth and accurate and for the first time gives me confidence in the actual speed displayed. My Smiths was never accurate.

Antenna placement was under the dash and easily secured by double sided tape. No need to place it any further away than that, at least not on my car.

So, I'm very happy with the new speedo and would recommend for anyone looking to go the GPS route. Now I'm looking to get one for my boat, which would be the first time ever I would have an accurate speed for it.

Thanks again for all the input!

Greg