Modified 78 gauges

'RONE'S CONCEPT'

Stage 1.

Remove previous speedo, disassemble internal workings. Obtain stock speedo and tacho gauges, remove from original dash surround and utilize original plastic buckets. Placed stripped down stock dash near mounting brackets to visualise modifications needed to fit and make new dash template from cardboard.

Stage 2.

Modified circuit board from aftermarket speedo to fit larger internal body of stock 78 speedo, only really wanted the LED's for 'Idiot Lights' (ie: Hi-Beam, Oil Light, Neutral Light and Indicator/Turn Signal light). Made modifications by drilling new mount holes and drilled holes to push new LED's into speedo face.

Stage 3.

Contacted a local engineer to fabricate two metal buckets, obtained the relevant dimensions so the new buckets would fit snugly over the outside of the stock blue plastic buckets and had 'locator' holes drilled into the bottom of the new buckets which made lining up of the original mounting threads easier. Had a section cut from bottom of new buckets to allow cables and wiring to pass through. The new buckets would slide on until the plastic lip of the stock bucket would touch thus creating a tight fit once matched up to original bezels. Once my new LED's were fitted to the Speedo I then carefully replace the glass and bezel making sure the rims was as flat as I could roll it over and that it sealed well so no moisture could leak in. To illuminate the gauges I had simply removed the stock bulbs and replaced with new LED single pin 'bayonet-style' bulbs bought from an LED supplier (check your local stockists or try THE LED SHOP based in Queensland, Australia)

Stage 4.

Had engineer fabricate approx. 2mm to 3mm thick plate, laser cut to a template I had made to form new dash for mounting both gauges. My concept was to have it contour around the bottom of both gauges so it looked to be as one. Once again, the appropriate holes were cut to allow for cables and wiring and this all mounted to the original dash mounts on the stock triple trees.

.....and basically, there you have it. One set of new custom modified gauges made from the stock '78 ones.

WARNINGS:

* Whenever you modify a stock item that was never meant to be taken apart you will always run the risk of that item not working correctly or as it was intended. Yes, that means it's always a gamble but hopefully will pay off, so keep this in mind before attempting.

* Avoid messing with / or damaging the magnet at the back of the Speedo housing as this is a delicate piece of equipment and any minor knocks or even metal filings from drilling, cutting, etc. can damage the magnet permanently or at the very least affect it's performance.

* Plan your modifications carefully, make as few changes to it as possible because the more you handle it the more chance for something to go wrong.

* When beginning to remove the Speedo glass and bezel, you will need to take extra care in slowly prying back bit by bit the bezel 'lip'. Gradually work around the circumference trying not to split or 'crease' the soft metal as you bend it up, remember, you will eventually need to press this metal back down to seal once mods have been completed. I found pressing down tightly was enough to re-seal the speedo from moisture but you may also need a small bead of silicon run around the underneath of the bezel lip for assurance.