How-to Refurb Cluster

I start with a recovered cluster and/or parts from Ebay, Craigslist or my local wrecking yards.

I completely disassemble and clean (de-rust as necessary) the cluster enclosure, face and bezel. The cleaned face and bezel surfaces are sanded and primed as necessary.

(TIP: Disassembly of gauges from enclosure is straight forward, however removing the speedometer needle is "tricky", I found that putting a little oil on the needle stem, then simply turning the needle counterclockwise will loosen needle from stem and then needle will easily come off stem)

(TIP: I use white distilled vinegar, soak parts for 24+ hrs and the rust simply comes off with wire brush & "Simple Green" cleaner)

The gauges and speedometer are gently cleaned, needles and mechanisms are inspected to insure they are intact and operational. I do some fundamental testing and inspection to insure proper operation. I do not currently have methods to fully test functionality or calibration. Any broken gauges, parts are replaced from spare inventory as necessary.

(TIP: To remove rust from gauges, I brush on naval jelly to rust areas, leave on for 30 minutes, then spray with "Simple Green", rinse and dry thoroughly with soft rag. I apply 3-in-one oil sparingly to moving parts)

(TIP: Speedometer lubrication is accomplished by removing (prying out) small cap on threaded base with small screw driver, then removing foam "wick" and adding 3-in-one oil, replace "wick" and cap. Speedometer drive shaft should then move freely)

(Testing TIPS: I use compressed air to test function of oil gauge, boiling water to test mechanical temp gauge, electric gauges are tested with 30ohm resistance on sender connector and speedometer is tested with power drill at 1000 rpm-counterclockwise to register 10 mph and insure speedometer/odometer functionality)

All screws, washers and isolators are cleaned before re-assembly.

Completed gauge and speedometer assemblies are installed in the enclosure.

(TIP: In most of my restorations I paint rear enclosure with Rustoleum silver hammered finish paint, looks great and reduces potential rust.)

Face plate and bezel are painted (or the bezel maybe chrome-plated) to original colors or a custom combination to match interior. That's the beauty of these clusters is the ability to customize to suit many interior colors and tastes. (See Color page)

(TIP: New chrome bezels and new glass with lettering are available online at Jim Carter Truck Parts or BowtieBits.com .)

New glass with new lettering is installed on face plate and sealed into position under the bezel with new gasket material.

(TIP: I use 1/2" foam weatherstripping as sealer between glass and bezel, fits in rear channel of the bezel.)