Gauges

[jimhurtt]

Hi All:

I am going to install a matching VDO voltage gauge in my 1991 CR1 and need some advice. In Fargo they installed only three gauges in the middle of the dash. I want to put this one between the speedometer and the first small gauge. How tough is that to do? Do I have to take out the seat and put my head in the driver's footwell to do this, or is there an easy way to remove the dash to put it in?

Also this winter I want to reinforce some body sections, like the rear fenderwells to the frame. Anyone know what kind of glue works on the underside of the body to hold a metal bracket to fiberglass?

Thanks, Jim

[Double Venom]

Double post

[Double Venom]

Jim,
You can put the gauge in as long as your arm is long and being triple jointed would help! By the time you go through all that it is easy to just grin and bear it! Don't take the seat out, just let both feet dangle over the top of the seat.

First of all cut the hole a little smaller than needed, Lift up the covering of the dash and then file away until you get the dash to fit. Now you can take the extra material around the hole and fold it in place. You can use spray glue on the back but if you took your time and cut it right - shouldn't need any glue.

Remember do NOT go any higher than CR's did with the gauges or you will hit the bar for the dash support.

Auto body store: They make a two part glue for fiberglass to steel----very pricey and wait till you go to buy the tool to use it! Product is SEM or 3M works great!
DV

[jimhurtt]

DV. Thanks once again for advice. I am clear on everything except "lifting up the cover of the dash". Does the vinyl come loose at the bottom or do I cross my fingers and cut out the hole in the vinyl first to get at the dash material (metal, wood?) with the drill bit? Its gonna be fun with my head upside down in that narrow footwell. You have what, 3 minutes to work before you pass out in that position?

Jim

[MaSnaka]

Jim,
I think getting into that position is only half the fun. It's getting out I worry about. For me physically that stuff is real hard on my neck and back. Good luck and be careful.

John

[Double Venom]

Jim,
Cut the hole from the front. What you don't want to do is cut the vinyl/leather the same size as the gauge. If you do, once the gauge is, in it stands a good chance of shrinking or pulling out from the edges of the gauge. You want just a little more "covering" than the size of the hole. Do not try and pull the "covering" loose from the top or the bottom. It will not come loose - with - the padding without ruining the "cover"!

Once again a great place for one of the miniature air saws! You can use a small hole saw, but again it has to be at least one full size smaller than the hole you will end up with.

Here's a builders hint.....If possible, drilling a hole through the covering or simply drilling a hole through the carpet, always (if possible) start the bit/hole saw going in REVERSE for a second before drilling / cutting in the right direction! This helps to keep the carpeting/covering from balling up and ruining the edges around the hole you are cutting/drilling.
DV

Ohh ya, getting out is the pain in the arse!

[jimhurtt]

I think I will chicken out and put the new voltage gauge to the right of the three existing gauges, between the last gauge and the glove box. I will have easier access by opening the glove box door, as CR saw fit to not put in an actual glove box. VDO only makes 4 gauges that size plus a clock. I wish I could get a VDO oil temperature gauge but no luck. Dosen't the Cobra with the most gauges always win the "peoples choice" car show trophy?

Based on DV's post I am going to mark a circle on the dash a little smaller than the gauge, then with razor cut an X inside the circle and peel back the vinyl to cut the hole. Then file it out to fit the gauge. I hope it is wood as I have not checked.

Jim

[Double Venom]

Jim,
That sounds like a plan,,,,but not to burst your bubble -CR's built (?) it's fiberglass.
DV