Adding Gauge/Switch Openings To Dash

BUCKEYE COBRA · #1 (**permalink**) 01-03-2005, 05:21 PM

I'm looking to add a couple of gauges and redo the layout of my dash. I have a fiberglass dash covered in leather.

What is the best way to cut new holes without redoing the leather covering?

Goober · #2 (**permalink**) 01-03-2005, 05:45 PM

As most gauges have a bezel, measure the actual gauge diameter and make a template. Use a sharp razor (exacto) knife and cut the vinyl or leather. Then mask off the opening and use a jig saw, hand saw, keyhole saw, rotozip or what ever and make the opening. Remove the tape, (I like heavy masking tape) and Bobs your uncle. All done. The bezel will hide small mistakes.
I have done a lot of custom gauge installs and its worked everytime. Do NOT use a hole saw!!!
Get a board and material and practice if your not sure.
Hope this helps

Mark

G.R. · #3 (**permalink**) 01-03-2005, 09:30 PM

Hole saws will work if you go slow . I used them on my leather covered dash. Layed out and prepped similar to Goobers post the drilled them out with a speed adjustable drill with "new" hole saw bits. My dash covering was/is bonded to the dash very well so the material didn't grab or bunch.
A friend drilled his vinyl covered FG dash with a hole saw. He layed out the dash on the front then drilled pilot holes then turned the dash over and drilled out the holes with a hole saw drilling almost all the way through then trimmed the remaining glass out with a razor knife .

For switches lay the switches out and using a small drill bit drill a pilot hole make a small ''X" incision no more than the diameter of the switch peel back the material and drill the appropriate size hole then use an x-acto or similar knife to remove the material around the hole.

BUCKEYE COBRA · #4 (**permalink**) 01-05-2005, 03:33 AM

Thanks for the advice. I need something to do until spring.(I also have my mother in-law living here temporarily so I am finding myself spending more time in the garage.......)

John

Uncle Bob....Do I have a lost Uncle out there??

Goober · #5 (**permalink**) 01-05-2005, 10:59 AM

Mother n laws will surely put you in the garage. I'm getting rid of mine today after 3 weeks. Never got so much done in my workshop in such a short period!!
Mark