Anvil Carbon Fiber Dash - 1969 Camaro

[Taylor1969]

I got my hands on a carbon fiber dash from Anvil and I wanted to share it with everyone.

The details and quality of the part are amazing and when you compare it to the one offered by Covan it is a real bargain.

The dash came well packed in a box - the part is so light it almost felt like the box was empty when I got it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/IMG_3005-1.jpg

After tearing into the box and carfully removing the bubblewrap I finally got my hands on the dash and optional gauge insert.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/IMG_3006-1.jpg

[Taylor1969]

Here is a detailed shot of the gauge insert - it shows how nice the carbon fiber looks. It definitely looks much better then the Covan "carbon fiber"

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/IMG_3012-1.jpg

[chaz75]

very nice, ballpark on what you paid for it. just nosey. chaz

[Taylor1969]

I purchased both 3 3/8" gauges and 5" gauges to test in the panel. I think that I may go with the 5" gauges. The panel comes pre-cut to fit 3 3/8" main gauges and 2 1/16" accessory gauges.

In order to install the autometer gauges that I purchased it was necessary to trim about 1/4" off of each mounting bracket supplied by autometer.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/gauge_bracket-1.jpg

After trimming the mounting bracket, the install was clean and simple. The gauge slid into the opening perfectly. It did not wiggle around, nor did it require force to put in.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/gauge_addon_side-1.jpg

[Taylor1969]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/Gauge_Addon-1.jpg

[Vegas69]

Blows the Covans away no doubt.

[Taylor1969]

In order to install the addon insert, it was necessary to cut a hole in the dash big enough to install the insert.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/Taped_Off-1.jpg

I taped off the hole and covered the part not being cut with towels and tape. This way, I would not accidently damage the panel in any way while cutting out the unneeded part.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/IMG_3123-1.jpg

[rlplive]

sweeeeeeeet

[akrapovic]

So how much?

[Taylor1969]

69 gauge panel= $295, insert= $69

[akrapovic]

thank you sir.

[oestek]

Very nice!

[icebird84]

nice gauge panel Very nice indeed

[Taylor1969]

Here is an image of the dash with 3 3/8 gauges installed:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/Gauges_Installed-1.jpg

[Taylor1969]

This weekend I will cutout the panel and install the 5" gauges.

I have already cutout the panel for the radio and will post pictures of that as well. When the radio is installed this truly looks like a factory piece.

This is one of my favorite modifications to the camaro so far. It is definitely a factory like upgrade.

[skeeters65]

Is that real carbon fiber??

[jonesmoto]

I have to agree. I purchased the dash insert for a 67 camaro, and when I received it, I could not believe the quality and workmanship. If your looking for high quality carbon fiber pieces, I would highly recommend Anvil. Just my 2 cents worth.

[Taylor1969]

Is that real carbon fiber??

Yep - this isn't a plastic dash with "carbon fiber" overlays.

if you are trying to cut it using a hacksaw type blade you will need quite a bit of patience.

[dropit69]

nice piece cant wait to see it with the 5 inch guages..wonder when hes gonna make one for us second gen guys ?..i need a new one too..like now !!..lol

[Taylor1969]

nice piece cant wait to see it with the 5 inch guages..wonder when hes gonna make one for us second gen guys ?..i need a new one too..like now !!..lol

I'll post up pictures over the weekend - Stay Tuned!

[rlplive]

cant wait

[XTRMEASURES]

would you have any pics of the back side of the panel?

[Taylor1969]

would you have any pics of the back side of the panel?

If you look at the side shots of the panel insert you will get a pretty good idea of what the back of the panel looks like.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/gauge_addon_side-1.jpg

[XTRMEASURES]

thanks
does the dash bolt on or clips on

[Taylor1969]

thanks
does the dash bolt on or clips on

The dash installs exactly like the factory dash

[BossaNova]

Nice choice on gauges.
Those look perfect against the cf.

[Taylor1969]

Here is a preview of the 5" gauges that I will be intalling

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/IMG_3025-1.jpg

[skatinjay27]

nice piece cant wait to see it with the 5 inch guages..wonder when hes gonna make one for us second gen guys ?..i need a new one too..like now !!..lolhe does!
he finished it before the 69 one.
http://s219.photobucket.com/albums/cc95/anvil_auto/?action=view&current=2ndgencfparts020.jpg

http://s219.photobucket.com/albums/cc95/anvil_auto/?action=view&current=2ndgencfparts018.jpg

[icebird84]

not bad
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/2ndgencfparts020-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/2ndgencfparts018-1.jpg
I´m not a fan of pin on hood but the rest of it I like
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/NewParts011-1.jpg

[1971CHEVELLE]

Wow.....very nice

[akrapovic]

Did you have any issues with fitment or did it fit just like the factory piece when installing in the car?

[Vegas69]

Nice piece, but looks tight for 5" gauges to look right.

[dropit69]

hmm the second gen ones wasnt on his site that i seen..looks cool ..have to check into it more..

[Taylor1969]

Did you have any issues with fitment or did it fit just like the factory piece when installing in the car?

It fit perfectly... remove factory piece, take anvil out of box and install.

[Taylor1969]

Nice piece, but looks tight for 5" gauges to look right.

5" fits in there perfectly...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/IMG_3160-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/IMG_3161-1.jpg

[Vegas69]

Sure do...looks much better. Never a fan of the 3 inch gauges.

[rlplive]

looks excellent

[icebird84]

looks excellent
indeed

[hotwheels]

Thanks for the post, Chris! We are working on getting the '69 instrument panel on our site along with some other new products we have in stock. If anyone is interested in purchasing something they don't see on our site, please call us on our toll free number:
888 723-8882
Here's a picture of the pattern for our newly designed 2nd gen panel. Notice how we brought all the gauges in closer to the middle so they are more easily viewed through smaller diameter steering wheels. The rest of the panel can be customized to fit the user's requirements. We have some of the early designs with the additional recesses and gear indicator in stock if anyone is interested. Good for automatic cars.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/December036-1.jpg

[hotwheels]

Here's a pattern for our gauge cluster panel for '68/'69 Camaro consoles. It will, of course, be made in real carbon fiber too.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/December037-1.jpg

[dropit69]

that second gen one looks sweet..i like the layout that is for 5 inch guages right? looks like it..can you buy them just how i see it raw so i could paint it black?..

[Fesler built]

I have a few ideas that will solve all the questions these guys have, we will have a few different styles to choose from that we are going to work on with Matt.

[Taylor1969]

Thanks for the post, Chris!


No Problem Matt!

I will try to get some installed pictures as soon as possible. Every time I work on the panel I am excited to get it in the car.

I have all of my wiring laid out and have completed almost all of the soldering.

I will take pictures of the panel installed along with my Billet Specialties steering wheel to give everyone an idea of the finished look.

I have templates for my radio as well as the wiper and headlight switch so that everyone's install will go really smoothly.

[hotwheels]

that second gen one looks sweet..i like the layout that is for 5 inch guages right? looks like it..can you buy them just how i see it raw so i could paint it black?..

Yeah, we'll be offering them in just fiberglass at a lower price point. They can be painted however you want. We'll be doing this for our other panels as well.

[dropit69]

thanks Matt let me know when available i have all guages for my dash now..any pics of the new design in a car yet?

[GetMore]

I like the idea of the gauges spaced in a little tighter. How about adding a few more holes for more guages?
I want to run at least six of the 2-1/16" gauges and two 5" on my second-gen. If you had eight 2-1/16" gauge holes I'm sure I could find other gauges to install.

[hotwheels]

I like the idea of the gauges spaced in a little tighter. How about adding a few more holes for more guages?
I want to run at least six of the 2-1/16" gauges and two 5" on my second-gen. If you had eight 2-1/16" gauge holes I'm sure I could find other gauges to install.

We will also be coming out with a driver's side A-pillar with 2 gauge pods and a 4 gauge pod for the console. If you want more gauges right in front of you, I think Fesler will be coming up with a dash panel in steel that we can reproduce in carbon fiber.

[kenhaw]

Looks amazing. I already have their hood, header and cowl panel plus the fender braces for my 69 Camaro. Cant wait to get my hands on this plus all the other carbon items that I want.
Please keep up the excellent work Anvil Auto.

Kenneth

[69rsz4me]

We will also be coming out with a driver's side A-pillar with 2 gauge pods and a 4 gauge pod for the console. If you want more gauges right in front of you, I think Fesler will be coming up with a dash panel in steel that we can reproduce in carbon fiber.

Do you know exactly when you expect to have the driver's side A-pillar with 2 gauge pods and a 4 gauge pod for the console available for sale? I need more gauges than a dash (with a/c vent and controls) and console can hold. Also I contacted Fesler to see where they were on the their dash, and was told that they are not currently working on a new dash, but they could make me a one off one, which I couldn't afford. Do you have any more details on their dash?

Mark

[hotwheels]

Do you know exactly when you expect to have the driver's side A-pillar with 2 gauge pods and a 4 gauge pod for the console available for sale? I need more gauges than a dash (with a/c vent and controls) and console can hold. Also I contacted Fesler to see where they were on the their dash, and was told that they are not currently working on a new dash, but they could make me a one off one, which I couldn't afford. Do you have any more details on their dash?

Mark


Mark,

We are just now working on making the pattern (the original part from which a mold is made) for the A-pillar with gauge pods, so I don't see being in production for about 2 months. Chris Fesler and I met up last week at Barrett Jackson and discussed working together on some new dash parts as well as some other parts. We first need to decide which parts to do first. It's a time consuming and labor intensive process, so don't expect something for at least 3 months I would say. I also went to Fesler's shop and came away very very impressed with how clean and organized everything is. The shop area is nicer than a lot of office spaces I've seen! Chris and his crew do really nice work. Very professional and he takes no shortcuts in his products. You can count on anything that we do with Fesler will meet the high standards of Anvil as well.

[dropit69]

ahh damn not sure i can wait that long on it ..guess ill bend some aluminum for now..

[69rsz4me]

Mark,

We are just now working on making the pattern (the original part from which a mold is made) for the A-pillar with gauge pods, so I don't see being in production for about 2 months. Chris Fesler and I met up last week at Barrett Jackson and discussed working together on some new dash parts as well as some other parts. We first need to decide which parts to do first. It's a time consuming and labor intensive process, so don't expect something for at least 3 months I would say. I also went to Fesler's shop and came away very very impressed with how clean and organized everything is. The shop area is nicer than a lot of office spaces I've seen! Chris and his crew do really nice work. Very professional and he takes no shortcuts in his products. You can count on anything that we do with Fesler will meet the high standards of Anvil as well.


Hey Matt,

Any updates on when the A-Pillar with gauge pods.

Mark

[hotwheels]

We should have some A-pillars with pods for both 1st and 2nd gen Camaros ready in about 10-12 days.

[Motown 454]

Nice gauge cluster,but then everything you make is nice.

[Damn True]

Yeah, we'll be offering them in just fiberglass at a lower price point. They can be painted however you want. We'll be doing this for our other panels as well.


Does this include the subject of that email I sent you yesterday?

[dropit69]

any more news on the raw dash yet for the 2nd gen..hoping to do it before the MI event in June??

[676869addict]

ive had a 68 dash from anvil for a while and i think there is no way you can even put covan and anvil in the category. i purchased a covan gauge pod for the console and when i saw it person i wanted to throw it away i still have it ill give to anyone if you pay shipping.

[Code Red]

very nice

[hotwheels]

True and Dropit,

We may be coming out with some fiberglass instrument panels that can be painted, but for now, we occasionally get a blem carbon fiber part that we are selling at a discount. The thing is with molding carbon fiber, you don't know if you have a good one until you demold it. By that time it's pretty much done, so rather than throw it away, it can be sold as a blem. If demand outstrips supply, we will start making them in fiberglass too.

[Twentyover]

Thanks for the post, Chris! We are working on getting the '69 instrument panel on our site along with some other new products we have in stock. If anyone is interested in purchasing something they don't see on our site, please call us on our toll free number:
888 723-8882
Here's a picture of the pattern for our newly designed 2nd gen panel. Notice how we brought all the gauges in closer to the middle so they are more easily viewed through smaller diameter steering wheels. The rest of the panel can be customized to fit the user's requirements. We have some of the early designs with the additional recesses and gear indicator in stock if anyone is interested. Good for automatic cars.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/December036-1.jpg

Finally someone who doesn't mold in the light and wiper bezel. Leaves a great place to put a face level vent. Even if you don't have/add A/C, a non-powered vent at face level beats the heck out of the buffeting you get w/ an open window at 70. A powered vent is even better.....

[69rsz4me]

We should have some A-pillars with pods for both 1st and 2nd gen Camaros ready in about 10-12 days.

Hey Matt,

Any progress with the A-Pillar with gauge pods.

Mark

[hotwheels]

Looks like we'll have a few A-pillars with gauge pods this week! I predict we will sell out quickly, but should have more in about a month.

[SatisTraction]

has anyone installed the 69 dash with the stock ac controls?

[69rsz4me]

Looks like we'll have a few A-pillars with gauge pods this week! I predict we will sell out quickly, but should have more in about a month.

Hey Matt,

What is the latest news on when the A-Pillar with gauge pods will be available for 1969 Camaros?

Mark

[killer69]

how about a CF dash cover???? as we all know what the replacement dash pads are like.
atleast you would have the option of either leaving it natural or covering it in leather but you would have a great base to work from.

my .02

[Phil69]

I second the idea of a CF dash cover or the option for a fiberglass to paint. I cant stand the thought of putting one of the replacements in that I have seen.

[jknight16]

how about a CF dash cover???? as we all know what the replacement dash pads are like.
atleast you would have the option of either leaving it natural or covering it in leather but you would have a great base to work from.

my .02

This is a great idea. My current pad fits like a bad tupee', but what good option is out there? Nada...

[dropit69]

im still waiting on a blank fiberglass insert for the second gen ..any new on them yet.?.

[Omaha SS]

Wow...that looks great. I can't wait to see the pics installed. I might have to go with this piece for my project '69 SS. :idea: