'69 Camaro Dash Insert & Gauges

[OldTimer]

My interior is progressing, got the MOMO D36 installed, I love it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/MOMO_5107_zpsn9mcblx2-1.jpg

Now I'm focusing on the dash, because the OEM dash doesn't do justice to that wheel LOL. I photoshopped the dash insert I bought, now I'm trying to decide whether to pull the trigger on New Vintage or Dakota Digitals. I really like the center swing NVU gauges more than the DD who still haven't released a 270-degree center swing HDX or VHX setup. I'm trying to figure out how to deal with all the auxiliary lights (directionals, emergency brake, high beam, ignition, etc.) so thats what the LEDs are.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

So here's the same insert with Dakota Digital's only available universal 6-gauge cluster.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Seems like a lot of empty space in the bezel and the small gauges especially. What do you guys think?

[130fe]

I have had the VHX and now have the HDX. I personally like the HDXs so much more the than the VHXs. not that the VHXs are bad, but you have so many more options with the HDXs. If you went with the DD ones (either one), you will not have to have all of those extra lights such as your turn signals, high beam and CEL as they are built in. Both versions of the DDs allow you to set warning parameters for each one. If you are using an OBD 2 compatible pcm, you can take most of the engine readings directly off of the PCK through their BIM-modules. The displays on the HDXs are better with the larger LCDs and you can change the colors of the needle and gauge backlighting. I just used their iPhone app that allows you to program it via Bluetooth (on HDX only). If you are wanting a retro 69 look, the New Vintage but will I think the HDXs take it upon to the next level depends on your car's look.

[OldTimer]

I have had the VHX and now have the HDX. I personally like the HDXs so much more the than the VHXs. not that the VHXs are bad, but you have so many more options with the HDXs. If you went with the DD ones (either one), you will not have to have all of those extra lights such as your turn signals, high beam and CEL as they are built in. Both versions of the DDs allow you to set warning parameters for each one. If you are using an OBD 2 compatible pcm, you can take most of the engine readings directly off of the PCK through their BIM-modules. The displays on the HDXs are better with the larger LCDs and you can change the colors of the needle and gauge backlighting. I just used their iPhone app that allows you to program it via Bluetooth (on HDX only). If you are wanting a retro 69 look, the New Vintage but will I think the HDXs take it upon to the next level depends on your car's look.

I'm already committed to the 6-gauge insert, and when I talked to DD, they said no immediate plans to release a 6-gauge universal set with 4-1/2" speedo/tach, 2-1/16" oil, fuel, amps, water. So the only DD option is the VHX pictured above. I don't have a OBD II as this is a old school carbureted 454, and that will never change. I've been nagging DD for almost a year, they say "someday" for the universal set. That doesn't fit my schedule. There's also Speed Hut, Autometer, and other options.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/BlueBeast007_zpsb2g0o8bj-1.jpg

That's my car... other changes coming are RS grill, 17" or 18" wheels, Vintage Air. And the gauge cluster.

[OldTimer]

Dug a little more, found that New Vintage also has this setup. Kinda like the blue in it since the car is blue.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/DKDPopulatedCFDash05_zpsduuqzmz0-1.jpg

Still wondering about the idiot light hookup.

[sheck44]

Oldtimer, I like this .. looks slick
I know it's kind of pricey but have you considered the DSE dash, I love your design but I'm not a fan of carbon unless your going to have it throughout the car consistently.
With what you've pictured above with those switches etc. on a satin black DSE dash would be extremely nice

Cheers
Steve

[130fe]

The DSE setup looks really good in 69s. When you are talking about the warning lights, you can use the stock harness wiring you already have in the car (assuming it is in good working order). They are easy to hook up, 2 wires- a ground and pos (trigger) wire. I have used similar ones in the past for turns signals and such. Just look for some built in resistor 12v led lights or just normal 12v indicator lights. Here is a cool example of a a turn signal and high beam-

https://www.denniskirk.com/407359.sku?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cse&gclid=Cj0KEQjwt6fHBRDtm9O8xPPHq4gBEiQAdxotvHnj51rQ lMEmfHARdLpEOZvJVxjFM4SV1C-2NBYQOwkaAlUD8P8HAQ&ad=45713335117

https://www.denniskirk.com/drag-specialties/high-beam-snap-in-indicator-light-with-black-bezel-2212-0105.p407358.prd/407358.sku

[OldTimer]

Oldtimer, I like this .. looks slick
I know it's kind of pricey but have you considered the DSE dash, I love your design but I'm not a fan of carbon unless your going to have it throughout the car consistently.
With what you've pictured above with those switches etc. on a satin black DSE dash would be extremely nice

Cheers
Steve

Steve... Thanks for the props, I already have the CF dash insert and yes, I am going to go with more carbon fiber in the interior to try and tie it all together.


The DSE setup looks really good in 69s. When you are talking about the warning lights, you can use the stock harness wiring you already have in the car (assuming it is in good working order). They are easy to hook up, 2 wires- a ground and pos (trigger) wire. I have used similar ones in the past for turns signals and such. Just look for some built in resistor 12v led lights or just normal 12v indicator lights. Here is a cool example of a a turn signal and high beam-

https://www.denniskirk.com/407359.sku?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cse&gclid=Cj0KEQjwt6fHBRDtm9O8xPPHq4gBEiQAdxotvHnj51rQ lMEmfHARdLpEOZvJVxjFM4SV1C-2NBYQOwkaAlUD8P8HAQ&ad=45713335117

https://www.denniskirk.com/drag-specialties/high-beam-snap-in-indicator-light-with-black-bezel-2212-0105.p407358.prd/407358.sku

Chris... Definitely bookmarking that site. I saw some similar LED indicators on Bitchin'Rides, they had a bank of them with either billet or SS trim. I was also toying with the idea of designing and building a custom backlit billet housing that would fasten to the steering column but be flush against the dash bezel. I know a crackerjack machinist who might mill it out for me if I give him a good drawing.

I have to search threads to see what others have done with aftermarket dash inserts and idiot lights.

[sheck44]

Excellent, I look forward to seeing the final product
Chris, thanks for the heads up on those flashers, those are cool !

Cheers
Steve

[OldTimer]

Found one source so far for the warning lights... but its in the UK. Not a huge problem, but I'd prefer to find someone selling these here in the states.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/07/0022012_billetaluminium_370-1.jpeg

I'd like to get four (4) indicators; Emergency Brake, Oil Pressure Low, Water Temp High, and Ignition/Battery.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/07/rJf5Pfz-1.jpg

Went with SpeedHut... very nice people to work with. Gave them the artwork for the Camaro script and the redline and they did a great job. Got to decide where the Oil Pressure sender will tap into. Right now I have a real poly oil line to my current SunPro gauges. The connection is just forward of the top of the oil filter. My intake blocks the port by the distributor, but theres another port on the block just behind where the PS pump is. Hopefully get this installed this week. Waiting on new headlight switch and wiper switch plus new vent. I'll pull the dash again when I do the Vintage Air... that should be here in 10 days along with my RS grill!