Now that I took out the dash and removed all the a/c and heat related stuff I have all kinds of room behind the dash. I also removed the HVAC control unit cause I don't have anymore use for it. I want to mount some autometer gauges where the old hvac control unit went. Has anyone done this? If so, please post pics. If not, I would really like some suggestion on how to do this. I still want to use the factory trim panel that covers the hvac and radio to give it a factory look. I assume that there aren't any companies out there that make a panel that bolts in where the hvac unit goes that has the holes for gauges? I just want to pick your guys' brains on this. Thanks, Paul Moore

 

Seems like I'm following you around!
My idea is to create a whole new cover/trim piece when I do mine. mcmaster.com has all kinds of sheet plastic at reasonable prices.
Installing gauges where the HVAC controls were should be a piece-o-cake. I know I've seen pics of it here (I think). If they don't fit exactly, you can always get some sheet styrene from a hobby shop. Easy to glue to the existing plastic and you can paint it to match.
ops32

 

Well, what I was thinking was to use the metal bracket that the hvac unit bolts to. You know the one that attaches to the lower console part with torx screws. I would make a full bracket with the same bends as the original and mount the gauges to that and then have to little plastic cover go on top(the one trim plate that goes over the radio and hvac control). Then, paint the bracket black so there is no shiny stuff showing throught the space between the gauges. That way, it will be totally custom, but using the factory parts will give it an orginal looking theme.

 

that seems to be a pretty good idea, what gauges are you planning on mounting?

 

I will be using autometer ultra lite gauges. I always was a big fan of the white faces cause they are easier to see, and really stand out in a dark interior. I am going to make a new gauge panel and mount a 5 inch in dash 200 MPH speedometer and 5 inch 10,000 RPM tach in the factory locations as well as a 2 1/16 fuel level, coolant temp, and voltage gauges in the stock locations. This will give an updated and modern look to a factory appearing gauge panel. I will then use a full a pillar pod on the driver's side for oil pressure, fuel pressure, and boost/vacuum all 2 1/16 as well. Then, in the custom made hvac panel will be 2 1/16 intake temperature, oil temperature, and either Nitrous pressure or a clock. I haven't figured that one out yet because I don't know if I will run nitrous or not. They will all be tied into the headlight switch so they come on when the headlights are on, and can also be adjusted by the dimmer switch.

 

I was going to do the same thing when i removed mine. Ide like to use it and the radio pod to put gauges and maybe some switches in the ash tray.

 

this is what i mocked uptoday...

a trans temp gauge and fuel pressure gauge will be in place of the two water temp gauges...

also the pannel i made will be painted gray like the original pannel i modified.

 

that looks sweet vorteciroc

 

Thats were i put mine. I'll get a pic tommrow for ya