under dash gauge cluster mounting hardware

[chuckpolzin]

hey guys,

i have a pretty standard issue 3 gauge cluster for 2 inch gauges i want to mount below the dash of my 79 westy.

Do most guys get away with drilling these with self tappers ? bolts?

will a strong 3m adhesive even work for these?

or any other thoughts ?

I know there is about a half inch or so of foam to go thru on the bottom of the dash before you get into some metal frame to actually bite a self tapper or other similar screw into but looking at what would be the least headache and still hold reasonably well. I know the 3m stuff nowdays is getting so strong that perhaps no holes at all would be needed

let me know your thoughts , thanks!

[busdaddy]

An experiment with modern 2 sided foam tape can't hurt, clean up the areas to stick to with alcohol or something first, no space age adhesive sticks to years of armorall and atmospheric residue.

Sheet metal screws work too, you'll need long ones for the foam, consider the pointy ends sticking up in the area where wires lay and fingers occasionally feel around, small machine screws may be the safer choice.
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[dodger tom]

something like this, chuck?

i mounted mine with bolts, washers, and nuts. the pic below is shot through the fresh-air level slot.

easier to do with the speedo/guage cluster out.
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1978 Champaign Edition 2 Westfalia
Would never find the time to keep up another classic air-cooled.

[aeromech]

I’ve installed numerous gauge clusters like the above VDO safety mount. I’ve always drilled up through the foam dash cover and through the metal. Then used a long self taping sheet metal screw. It’s a bitch and a job I hate doing even though I’ve always had good results. As said, best to observe where your screw ends up so as not to create a melt down. I doubt glue would suffice
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[dodger tom]

[dodger tom]

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