Classic Instruments Custom Gauge Clusters - Custom-Crafted Clusters

Here, fabrication and machining of components for final assembly is being done. The CAD drawings are utilized to machine and cut out precision pieces for the final build.

Closing in on the end of the project, final assembly takes place. This is where the communication, engineering, and design steps really pay off. The joint effort of the build team with the customer allows for seamless assembly.

Once the gauge cluster is put together the pointers need to be mounted on the movements and calibrated. Here the unit is tested for accuracy. Throughout the process the proof that the customer approved stays with the project and at each stage the builders verify that the proof matches the build to ensure that the customer gets exactly what he/she want.

With the final product assembled, it is then shipped to the customer in a custom-built crate.

Here's a gauge cluster from a '66 Chevy Bel Air that was sent in to the custom gauge department for a face-lift. The owner wanted to better improve his ability to monitor the mechanical aspects over what the stock dummy lights afforded.

The entire cluster is disassembled before the customization process begins.

The cluster housings are sandblasted before being primed and painted to the customer's specs.

New faceplates are cut to fit using the CNC method discussed earlier. Notice the gauge pods that will be mounted on either side of the speedo, replacing the stock fuel gauge and blank plate.

Naturally, all-new internals are installed as part of the refurbishment process. Here, the new movements for the tach (left) and speedo (center) are installed as well as the new odometer counter.

On the right side of the cluster where the blank plate used to be is a cluster consisting of fuel level, oil pressure, water temperature, and voltmeter gauges.

This cluster will be completely electronic with functioning illumination replacing the stock dummy lights. Out the door, the cluster is ready to be installed and wired up to the existing harness and comes with all necessary senders.

Since the fuel gauge was relocated to the right side cluster, the owner opted for a tach to take its place on the left side of the cluster, a simple job for the Classic Instruments custom shop.

Here's the new speedo faceplate for the '66. The red highlight was designed to match the exterior of the car and complement the original design.

Here are a couple more unique designs from Classic Instruments.