I have one of those "rare" overhead consoles in my 1986 IROC, and I was thinking of removing those number things and replacing it with a digital compass. Has anyone ever tried this before, or something similar?

[This message has been edited by blue86iroc (edited July 26, 2001).]

 

I'm currently in the process of installing a switch panel where the 'fake' odometers were. They were very easy to remove, just needed a dremel tool.

The assembly that has the map light and both switches just needs to be removed and everything else comes apart:

Take the dremel to all the circular 'posts' that seem to support the assembly, just melt right through w/ a drill-type bit (I don't know the correct name). Should come right out. Feel free to ask more questions if needed

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• '89 Trans AM, 305 TPI, 5-spd
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Thanks for the tip; I haven't had a chance to take out the overhead console yet. If I couldn't find any small compasses then I was going to mount a switch block there like you did. The only problem is, I'm having trouble thinking of what functions the switches will perform! So far, the only one I can come up with is an amplifier cut-off for my speaker system. How would one go about wiring up these switches? Just go underneath the headliner and down the side of the door opening?

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1986 Camaro IROC-Z
Code 23 Paint ("IROC Blue")
305 TPI
T-Tops
6-Speaker Audio System

 

You're right as far as the wiring path. Mine will include a fan overide switch (turn on whenever you want), and 3 switches for my various lights I have for show on the car.

The best thing to do is handle all the switching with relays, mounted elswhere in the car (underdash, etc..) this way, you can ground anything you need right to the roof supports up there, and only need to run the trigger wires, and power for them (smaller wires since you're using relays)

Hope that helps too

 

Why not just go to a wrecking yard and purchase a rearview mirror with compass and thermometer out of a late model Silverado or such. I just bought one for $20 used. All the electronics are self contained in the mirror, just add power. My parents '98 Oldsmobile has a mirror with just the compass since the thermometer is located in the AC unit, so that is another option too.

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'86 Camaro Sport Coupe and '88 IROC

 

Blue502, that's a great idea! I'll have to look into that. Thanks for the idea!