Speedo Pod/Gauge Restoration Ideas

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Hello,
Firstly, I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE IN ADVANCE THAT REPLIES TO THIS THREAD.

I just purchased this complete speedo pod assembly. I don't have it yet, only the pictures for reference. I have done some homework and read through numerous threads on the restoration of these pods and their components. I am fairly handy at restoring parts, but this would be my first pod.
My main concern is the peeling, flaking paint on the speedo face. Everything else seems to be quite serviceable and the seller stated the speedometer, lock, and individual parts are functional although a bit neglected. Of, course that will all be determined once I get it in hand.

These are my concerns:
How to restore the face of the gauge?
If I can't do it myself, does someone know where to get a replacement OEM, reproduction, or restored gauge face?
If I can't do it myself or buy a good gauge face, does anyone have knowledge of a reliable restorer and the cost to restore the gauge face; not the entire speedo, just the face?

Thanks again for your contribution to this thread, Dan.

[Steve in NJ]

John Henry


[email protected]




Steve in NJ

[nlorntson]

For the speedometer Ryan is a pretty good option but you will need to be VERY patient. [email protected] is his email

His feedback: http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=274383

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Thank you both for the references. I did run across both those vendors when I was researching possible options.

Has anyone tried the Kaefer-Nostalgie water transfer decal? I would like to do as much of the work as possible myself due to $$$ constraints. So, that's why I was initially asking about diy type products for the face of the gauge. I have no doubt of the quality of work produced by these two vendors, the pictures of their services speak volumes and I will keep them in mind.

But what about something like this? Is it any good? Are there any other options for the hands on guy?

[Jacks]

I would be tempted to leave the gauge just as it is, even on a restored car. There is something wonderful about having a few original parts to show the provenance and lineage. Kinda like a fine woman that is aging gracefully. She might have a few wrinkles and blemishes here and there, but she's still hot. Beyond that, it's an easy fix later on if you can't live with it, and a repro decal will look like... well, a repro decal, not an original.
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Jack Staggs
Actual name

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Hello Jack,
I see your point on authenticity. I too feel that things that look too new are a bit garish on a vintage vehicle. I prefer the look of things that show a refined vintage look. But, in this case the face needs restoration. It's a speedometer. It is necessary to be able to read the gauge while driving. The paint on the face is just falling off. By the time it is shipped to me, who knows how much of it will be left.

[johnshenry]

The face is always the hardest part. I have not seen decals made for that style of speedo (the later split speedo with the flat top circle in the center), and of the decals that I have seen/used, they seldom adhere well to the dished metal face. I would either used the face as-is, or keep an eye out for a new speedo. Speedos come up from time to time with good clean faces. Everything else is easily restoreable.
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John Henry

'57 Deluxe
'56 Single Cab

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