Dakota Digital cluster

[chevynut]

Is this new? http://www.dakotadigital.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=product/product_id=1134/category_id=420/mode=prod/prd1134.htm

Might appeal to those looking for a more stock look. All stepper motors. I think the tach is about worthless, but it's there.

http://www.dakotadigital.com/cartimages/prd_1134.jpg?img_id=201902201411090

[Rick_L]

I think they introduced it at SEMA last fall. I'm sure some will like it, but as almost always, the tach is lacking.

Their other newest offering, the HDX (which has been out a couple of years) has some nice display adjustability, but for a 55-56, the tach movement is BACKWARDS! Not acceptable.

So it will be the VHX for me because of the tach. I haven't bought one yet but probably soon will. Got burned on my last "too early" instrument purchase, the Custom Rod Gauges setup.

RTX, HDX, and VHX all have stepper motors for all movements.

[chevynut]

IMO they should just bag the analog speedometer and ONLY use the digital one, and make a big tach. My Porsche has both the analog and digital speedos and I almost never look at the analog one. A tach has to be analog. They could make the other gauges larger too if they did that, or add more gauges. I think the VHX is the best of them all.

[busterwivell]

I like the Dakota Digital gauges I put in my 56, don't remember which model it was, but everything seems fine to me........

[markm]

Hot rods don't need speedometer's I have not had one that works in my 67 Camaro in 40 years, never bothered hooking one up in my 55 either. I love the look of my big chrome mech tach on dash of 55 anyway.

[chevynut]

Hot rods don't need speedometer's

I'll bet your Kansas vehicle laws require one. Ask your cop friend.

[scorpion1110]

I actually like the Classic Instruments Bel-Era III over the Dakota Digital look.

9772

But to your point CN, because of the tach, I just rebuilt my original cluster, will add a Sun Blue Line Tach and deal with the other gauge needs on an auxilary gauge panel.

[chevynut]

I actually like the Classic Instruments Bel-Era III over the Dakota Digital look.

The problem with Classic Instruments and everyone else, IMO, is that they still use crappy old meter movements and no backlighting like modern instruments. DD uses state-of-the-art modern stepper motors with LED backlighting.

[55 Rescue Dog]

Stepper motors or not, those tiny hard to read gauges are just an indication, rather than any accurate measurements. Most of the time they should be used with warning (idiot lights) to get your attention. I've found that a bright shift light is much better than a tach when driving to the limit to shift, than trying to read numbers on all of the gauges hauling ass. Shifting (with a manual trans) temp, and oil pressure lights are important. Rev-limiter to back up the shift light too.

[chevynut]

Stepper motors or not, those tiny hard to read gauges are just an indication, rather than any accurate measurements.

I disagree...the stepper motors and modern sensors make them more accurate and repeatable, and mine are big enough to give true readings, rather than just an indication. Can you see the difference between 20 and 60 PSI oil pressure? I can.

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41QqfdJuI1L.jpg

[markm]

[QUOTE=chevynut;51210]I'll bet your Kansas vehicle laws require one. Ask your cop friend.[/QUOTE

Yes they are required but whether they work or not is optional.

[chevynut]

markm, here's the Kansas law regarding this. I haven't been able to find anything that specifically says speedometers are required, BUT.....

1-5835. Unlawful acts concerning odometers. (a) It is unlawful for any person:(1) To knowingly tamper with, adjust, alter, change, set back, disconnect or fail to connect the odometer of any motor vehicle, or cause any of the foregoing to occur to an odometer of a motor vehicle, so as to reflect a lower mileage than the true mileage traveled by the motor vehicle;

(2) with the intent to defraud, to operate a motor vehicle on any street or highway knowing that the odometer of the motor vehicle is disconnected or nonfunctional;
(3) to advertise for sale, sell, use or install on any part of a motor vehicle or on any odometer in a motor vehicle any device which the person knows can cause the odometer to register any mileage other than the true mileage; or
(4) to sell or offer to sell, with the intent to defraud, a motor vehicle knowing that the odometer of such motor vehicle was tampered with, adjusted, altered, changed, set back, disconnected or failed to be connected so as to reflect a lower mileage than the true mileage of such motor vehicle.
(b) Nothing in this section shall prevent the service, repair or replacement of an odometer, provided the mileage indicated thereon remains the same as before the service, repair or replacement. If the odometer is incapable of registering the same mileage as before such service, repair or replacement, the odometer shall be adjusted to read zero and a notice shall be attached permanently to the left door frame of the vehicle by the owner or owner's agent specifying the mileage prior to repair or replacement of the odometer, the date on which it was repaired or replaced and the vehicle identification number except that it shall be unlawful for any person to:

(1) Fail to adjust an odometer or affix a notice regarding such adjustment, as required under this subsection; or
(2) remove or alter any notice affixed to a vehicle pursuant to the provisions of this subsection.
(c) Violation of this section is a severity level 9, nonperson felony.

(d) The provisions of this section shall not apply to antique motor vehicles which could be registered under the provisions of K.S.A. 8-166 et seq., and amendments thereto, or to special interest vehicles which could be registered under the provisions of K.S.A. 8-194 et seq., and amendments thereto.


8-194. Special interest vehicles; definitions. As used in this act: (a) "Collector" means the owner of one or more special interest vehicles or street rod vehicles who acquires, collects, purchases, trades or disposes of such vehicles or parts therefor for such person's own use in order to restore, preserve and maintain such vehicle or vehicles for historic interest.
(b) "Parts car" means a motor vehicle generally in nonoperable condition which is owned by a collector to furnish parts which will enable the collector to restore, preserve and maintain a special interest vehicle, street rod vehicle or antique vehicle.
(c) "Special interest vehicle" means a motor vehicle which is more than 20 years of age and which has not been altered or modified from the original manufacturer's specifications except to assure normal running operation or to meet specific safety inspection requirements on original equipment, or both. "Special interest vehicle" shall also mean and include a motor vehicle manufactured before 1949 that when altered or modified is referred to as a "street rod."


So it looks like you can have a non-working speedometer, but the odometer must work per Kansas law. So if the speedometer doesn't work because of the cable, tranny gear or something that causes the odometer not to work, it's apparently illegal to drive it. And a car built after 1949 isn't exempt if modified from stock. Of course this is a technicality, but that's the way I read it.

I'm pretty sure other states require speedometers for safety and virtually every state has laws concerning odometers. In Colorado, I think you just have to sign an affidavit saying the odometer mileage is not what is shown and that it's unknown. At least that's when you try to transfer a title. That way the unkown mileage is disclosed to the buyer.

[busterwivell]

I disagree...the stepper motors and modern sensors make them more accurate and repeatable, and mine are big enough to give true readings, rather than just an indication. Can you see the difference between 20 and 60 PSI oil pressure? I can.


That's what mine look like...........

[Gmvette]

Lots of information in the original size package, but will it be practical while driving? It would seem one’s eyes would be off the road a while seeking the gauge to view. A bit too small/busy other than the speedo for my taste.

I like the separate pods like a 57 but I’m used to it. Lesser viewed gauges hang below in old fashion with big faces.

No intent to discourage this cluster but just MHO.

Just a question how good are stepper motors for gauges? And what is the advantage? Sounds like more circuitry required.

Do you really think people follow the odometer laws?..........really

[Custer55]

markm, here's the Kansas law regarding this. I haven't been able to find anything that specifically says speedometers are required, BUT.....

1-5835. Unlawful acts concerning odometers. (a) It is unlawful for any person:(1) To knowingly tamper with, adjust, alter, change, set back, disconnect or fail to connect the odometer of any motor vehicle, or cause any of the foregoing to occur to an odometer of a motor vehicle, so as to reflect a lower mileage than the true mileage traveled by the motor vehicle;

(2) with the intent to defraud, to operate a motor vehicle on any street or highway knowing that the odometer of the motor vehicle is disconnected or nonfunctional;
(3) to advertise for sale, sell, use or install on any part of a motor vehicle or on any odometer in a motor vehicle any device which the person knows can cause the odometer to register any mileage other than the true mileage; or
(4) to sell or offer to sell, with the intent to defraud, a motor vehicle knowing that the odometer of such motor vehicle was tampered with, adjusted, altered, changed, set back, disconnected or failed to be connected so as to reflect a lower mileage than the true mileage of such motor vehicle.
(b) Nothing in this section shall prevent the service, repair or replacement of an odometer, provided the mileage indicated thereon remains the same as before the service, repair or replacement. If the odometer is incapable of registering the same mileage as before such service, repair or replacement, the odometer shall be adjusted to read zero and a notice shall be attached permanently to the left door frame of the vehicle by the owner or owner's agent specifying the mileage prior to repair or replacement of the odometer, the date on which it was repaired or replaced and the vehicle identification number except that it shall be unlawful for any person to:

(1) Fail to adjust an odometer or affix a notice regarding such adjustment, as required under this subsection; or
(2) remove or alter any notice affixed to a vehicle pursuant to the provisions of this subsection.
(c) Violation of this section is a severity level 9, nonperson felony.

(d) The provisions of this section shall not apply to antique motor vehicles which could be registered under the provisions of K.S.A. 8-166 et seq., and amendments thereto, or to special interest vehicles which could be registered under the provisions of K.S.A. 8-194 et seq., and amendments thereto.


8-194. Special interest vehicles; definitions. As used in this act: (a) "Collector" means the owner of one or more special interest vehicles or street rod vehicles who acquires, collects, purchases, trades or disposes of such vehicles or parts therefor for such person's own use in order to restore, preserve and maintain such vehicle or vehicles for historic interest.
(b) "Parts car" means a motor vehicle generally in nonoperable condition which is owned by a collector to furnish parts which will enable the collector to restore, preserve and maintain a special interest vehicle, street rod vehicle or antique vehicle.
(c) "Special interest vehicle" means a motor vehicle which is more than 20 years of age and which has not been altered or modified from the original manufacturer's specifications except to assure normal running operation or to meet specific safety inspection requirements on original equipment, or both. "Special interest vehicle" shall also mean and include a motor vehicle manufactured before 1949 that when altered or modified is referred to as a "street rod."


So it looks like you can have a non-working speedometer, but the odometer must work per Kansas law. So if the speedometer doesn't work because of the cable, tranny gear or something that causes the odometer not to work, it's apparently illegal to drive it. And a car built after 1949 isn't exempt if modified from stock. Of course this is a technicality, but that's the way I read it.

I'm pretty sure other states require speedometers for safety and virtually every state has laws concerning odometers. In Colorado, I think you just have to sign an affidavit saying the odometer mileage is not what is shown and that it's unknown. At least that's when you try to transfer a title. That way the unkown mileage is disclosed to the buyer.

In Wisconsin vehicles are exempt from odometer disclosure after they are 10 years old so they don't list the mileage on the title if you buy a vehicle over 10 years old, just that it is exempt from mileage disclosure, so I doubt it matters if your speedometer works or not. At least not until you get a ticket because you didn't know how fast you were going.
Brian

[markm]

Lots of information in the original size package, but will it be practical while driving? It would seem one’s eyes would be off the road a while seeking the gauge to view. A bit too small/busy other than the speedo for my taste.

I like the separate pods like a 57 but I’m used to it. Lesser viewed gauges hang below in old fashion with big faces.

No intent to discourage this cluster but just MHO.

Just a question how good are stepper motors for gauges? And what is the advantage? Sounds like more circuitry required.

Do you really think people follow the odometer laws?..........really

They are the best Idea since printed circuit boards on 88 up taillights on GM trucks. Everyone I know with an early 2000s truck has had issues with them while my 72 Cheyenne Super soldiers on with OEM cluster. When they die you will probably be unable to replace them.

[chevynut]

Lots of information in the original size package, but will it be practical while driving? It would seem one’s eyes would be off the road a while seeking the gauge to view. A bit too small/busy other than the speedo for my taste.

Not sure what you're referring to since you didn't say. Have you ever seen a VHX in person? I have.....I have one. The tach is as big as the speedo. Gauges are easy to read....easy as any modern car IMO. Once you get used to where the smaller ones are, it's just a glance....just like a new car.


I like the separate pods like a 57 but I’m used to it. Lesser viewed gauges hang below in old fashion with big faces.

SO who's going to put a 57 gauge cluster in a 55 or 56? Nobody. Gauges below the dash are too old school for me. I hate seeing a tach on the top of the dash except maybe in a race car.



Just a question how good are stepper motors for gauges? And what is the advantage? Sounds like more circuitry required.

All the VHX functions are controlled by a computer. They have several warnings that can be programmed....speedometer, tach and fuel gauge are programmable which means you can use any fuel sender, and even calibrate one. Speedo is calibrated by driving a mile. It has tons of nice features. I wish it had user-defined colors like the HDX gauges, but I got the black and white setup because I think it looks more OEM and I don't like blue or red LEDs.

Stepper motors reset and re-calibrate every time power is applied. The computer tells them where to point the indicator. All new cars have used them for many years and they're a lot more repeatable and accurate than old wire wound movements.



Do you really think people follow the odometer laws?..........really

Beats me, but that's the law. People speed too. People violate all sorts of laws....until they get caught.

[chevynut]

They are the best Idea since printed circuit boards on 88 up taillights on GM trucks. Everyone I know with an early 2000s truck has had issues with them while my 72 Cheyenne Super soldiers on with OEM cluster. When they die you will probably be unable to replace them.

I'm sure DD will repair the stepper motors if they fail. Have you heard of one ever failing in a DD cluster? I haven't. My 2003 Silverado had stepper motor problems and I had them all replaced even though only one went bad. They had a bad batch of motors for a few years that caused problems on the early 2000s Chevys. Shit happens.....but they still use them and I'm not aware of any problems for a decade or more.

[chevynut]

Digital Stepper Motor (Full Sweep Electric)
The next type of instrument we’ll touch on are our Digital Stepper Motor gauges. These highly advanced instruments represent the pinnacle of individual gauge technology and provide the highest possible levels of accuracy, precision, response and durability. Each instrument is controlled by a microprocessor on an circuit board printed in house, which allows for incredibly quick calculations as well as a number of other features not seen in the other gauge types. These gauges utilize laboratory grade sending units for the ultimate in accuracy, no more than +/- 1%. These solid state sending units are the same ones used in our high end data acquisition solutions. In fact, many of them can simultaneously be used to provide data streams to a logger or standalone engine management system. To further increase accuracy, every time the gauge is powered up it will zero calibrate to assure that even as it wears over a lifetime, it will always remain as accurate as it was the day it was built. These gauges utilize 270º of the dial, making them very easy to read, even at small levels of change. Included with each DSM gauge is a wiring harness specific to the instrument and included sender. These harnesses also provide a ground for the sending unit, so there aren’t any concerns about the sending unit ground through the threads affecting instrument accuracy. We still prefer liquid Teflon to the tape, but these also have the bonus of being able to be easily installed even in composite and other non-grounded materials.

Because they so easily communicate critical information to the driver, offer unparalleled accuracy and in many case automatically trigger key condition based events, these gauges can easily be the difference between a lost race and a lost motor. The driver stays more focused on the task at hand, confident that should a condition outside the norm pop up, they’ll be warned and be able to easily see exactly what that condition is. There is, quite simply, not a more accurate or durable instrument solution available from any manufacturer, at any price.

https://www.autometer.com/resources/index/faq_view/id/78#

[scorpion1110]

Digital Stepper Motor (Full Sweep Electric)
The next type of instrument we’ll touch on are our Digital Stepper Motor gauges. These highly advanced instruments represent the pinnacle of individual gauge technology and provide the highest possible levels of accuracy, precision, response and durability. Each instrument is controlled by a microprocessor on an circuit board printed in house, which allows for incredibly quick calculations as well as a number of other features not seen in the other gauge types. These gauges utilize laboratory grade sending units for the ultimate in accuracy, no more than +/- 1%. These solid state sending units are the same ones used in our high end data acquisition solutions. In fact, many of them can simultaneously be used to provide data streams to a logger or standalone engine management system. To further increase accuracy, every time the gauge is powered up it will zero calibrate to assure that even as it wears over a lifetime, it will always remain as accurate as it was the day it was built. These gauges utilize 270º of the dial, making them very easy to read, even at small levels of change. Included with each DSM gauge is a wiring harness specific to the instrument and included sender. These harnesses also provide a ground for the sending unit, so there aren’t any concerns about the sending unit ground through the threads affecting instrument accuracy. We still prefer liquid Teflon to the tape, but these also have the bonus of being able to be easily installed even in composite and other non-grounded materials.

Because they so easily communicate critical information to the driver, offer unparalleled accuracy and in many case automatically trigger key condition based events, these gauges can easily be the difference between a lost race and a lost motor. The driver stays more focused on the task at hand, confident that should a condition outside the norm pop up, they’ll be warned and be able to easily see exactly what that condition is. There is, quite simply, not a more accurate or durable instrument solution available from any manufacturer, at any price.

https://www.autometer.com/resources/index/faq_view/id/78#

CN you are such a tech-snob.

I am putting a cluster from a 29 Ford in my 55. Now thats nostagia ;)

scorp

[Rick_L]

Horse driven buggies didn't have gauges. You just used your eyes and ears. That should be good enough for you purist nostalgia types.

PS don't forget the wood spoke wheels.

[markm]

Horse driven buggies have almost as big of wheels as Cnuts Nomad

[markm]

Beats me, but that's the law. People speed too. People violate all sorts of laws....until they get caught.

Like swapping frames without getting a builders title.

[Gmvette]

Beats me, but that's the law. People speed too. People violate all sorts of laws....until they get caught.

Like swapping frames without getting a builders title.

That is like jacking up the vin plate/build tag and inserting a new body, frame, and drivetrain.

When done in the confines of your own garage who can say differently.

[chevynut]

Horse driven buggies have almost as big of wheels as Cnuts Nomad

My 18" rear and 17" front wheels are better than those ATV ballon tires and 15" wheels on your 55 with the tunnel ram garbage and toilet tank floats sticking out of the hood. :D

[chevynut]

Like swapping frames without getting a builders title.


Not required in any state that I know of. Not in Colorado. Maybe in Kansas, but you've never been able to cite the law. LOL!

[chevynut]

CN you are such a tech-snob.

I'm an engineer....I like modern technology. It performs better, more efficient, more accurate, etc, etc, etc. It's called progress.

[markm]

My 18" rear and 17" front wheels are better than those ATV ballon tires and 15" wheels on your 55 with the tunnel ram garbage and toilet tank floats sticking out of the hood. :D

Getting ready to go out to the front garage and fire mine up and go for a spin how about you.

[markm]

Not required in any state that I know of. Not in Colorado. Maybe in Kansas, but you've never been able to cite the law. LOL!

Its standard in most states I don't need to worry because mine have not been swapped, go find it yourself.

[55 Rescue Dog]

I'm an engineer....I like modern technology. It performs better, more efficient, more accurate, etc, etc, etc. It's called progress.
Maybe so, but you totally lost me with the desired remote controlled electronic speed controlled electric solenoid operated hood latch, and maybe a couple other things that no other modern car has. After all you are several hundred pounds over the
GVRW design limit of the C4 chassis that you surely must have considered.

[chevynut]

Maybe so, but you totally lost me with the desired remote controlled electronic speed controlled electric solenoid operated hood latch, and maybe a couple other things that no other modern car has. After all you are several hundred pounds over the
GVRW design limit of the C4 chassis that you surely must have considered.


You are so FOS. A C4 Corvette weight is pushing 3400 pounds and my Nomad won't weigh that much over that. I recall you claiming my front sheetmetal was going to weigh a ton, and I weighed it and proved to you how full of shit you are. It was lighter than the stock parts. My suspension is lighter than the stock suspension. It's easy to confuse a tech-illiterate person who obviously doesn't know crap about electronics. You can't even understand a simple electric hood latch with a speed interlock when I produce a drawing of it. :D

[55 Rescue Dog]

You are so FOS. A C4 Corvette weight is pushing 3400 pounds and my Nomad won't weigh that much over that. I recall you claiming my front sheetmetal was going to weigh a ton, and I weighed it and proved to you how full of shit you are. It was lighter than the stock parts. My suspension is lighter than the stock suspension. It's easy to confuse a tech-illiterate person who obviously doesn't know crap about electronics. You can't even understand a simple electric hood latch with a speed interlock when I produce a drawing of it. :D
After 47 years of electrical experience, your schematic, and idea sucks, and you are dreaming on the weight. Back to the OP's original post, I kind of like the DD cluster even though it is stupid money for it's function. As far as a speedometer goes, anyone can do that right on their phone stuck to the dash. Also, I don't ever remember calling you any names like you have to me, and many others.:D
I understand what you where trying to describe in your schematic even though wasn't drawn even close to what I'm used to seeing. But I was lost as to the reasoning for a electronic /magnetic, magic hood opener. Don't you still need to release a secondary safety latch to open the hood anyway? I would be worried about somebody's garage door opener making my hood fly open cruising down the road.

[scorpion1110]

I'm an engineer....I like modern technology. It performs better, more efficient, more accurate, etc, etc, etc. It's called progress.

Gotta quibble here a bit.

The concepts behind modern technology work, but the parts that are used to make it work are often subpar. An excellent example is home stereo.

My Dad sold stereo, starting in the 60's through his death in 1991. He brought home every high end piece of equipment ever made. Bozak, TEAC, Dahlquist, Magnepans, Marantz, McIntosh, Hafler, Proton, Martin Logan. The right stuff at the right times.

With only small exception (ie McIntosh and only a few others), you began to see more features but worse build quality as we moved through the 60s, 70, 80s into the 90s.

So right now I am Using a 50" plasma in my den, run through a 1969-70 Era Crown C41 Amp, C&M Labs amp both bi-amped through a Bozak Crossover network, controlled by a Marantz 7T Preamp. Speakers are custom built Bozaks. The Tuner is a dyna Tube unit. Turntable Sony TTS3000.

My Point? From a build quality/technology standpoint, this equipment was at the apex of Hi Fi in 1969-70 and arguably today because while todays equipment does more its built with flimsy cheap materials. Yes you can still get the good stuff but its disproportionately expensive. The TTS3000 will run circles over any turntable until you get into the $10k units. You cant find an affordable Pre-amp to touch the Marantz. And play GNR Sweet Child of Mine through the Bozaks and the house moves off its foundation. Try a set of moderately expensive 2019 speakers and watch the surrounds grenade and listen to them buzz like a hornets nest.

So CN, when you always argue technology without the offset being qualilty of material and process, its a flawed argument.

Technology with the best quality parts and manufacture could arguably be 30 - 40 years ago. And maybe even further.

A stock 1955 Nomad might be the perfect blend of technology and quality.

Look I am not busting your chops, but technology without quality is simply garbage, and too much technology today isnt quality.

I am not an Engineer but I am a Finance MBA- I understand economics, marketing, production and manufacturing pretty well.

Now I am bolting up those hickory wagon wheels to my wagon. Thanks MarkM.

Scorp

[markm]

A BBC and 6 speed in a station wagon at 3400, yea right my 67 Camaro weights 3360on NHRA scales. No AC with alum 4 speed, 12 bolt, alum intake.

As far as tech goes Scorpion is dead on right, too much of any good thing is bad. Right now rain comes to mind.

[55 Rescue Dog]

Electronics on modern cars are getting way over the top for me usually. The fully automated carwash that I do maintenance/troubleshooting on call at, can be a nightmare itself at times. Got a frantic call from some lady that had gone into the 5 spinning foam brush bay with a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica mini-van that said the car wash ripped the sliding door right off the van. She was right it did, and it was horrible to watch the whole event on the security cameras. She was in the front seat, and her 3 year old grand daughter was strapped into a car seat thankfully on the passenger side. Partway through the cycle the sliding door opened up all by itself, and then I could see the spinning giant foam brush halfway inside the van spraying water all over. Then on the return pass the brush wedged in behind the door, and knocked it right off to the floor. The machine continued to run the other cycles soaking the passengers, and it was 20 degrees and windy outside. What a disaster, but no one hurt, other than the traumatized little girl that will have nightmares about a car wash trying to eat her. The Pacifica sliding door can be opened several ways, including a key fob, a light touch on the outer door handle, or even waving your foot under the rocker panel. We still do not know how it could have opened all by itself. The carwash manufacturer even rented a identical model trying to reproduce the accident. I did come across a list of over 30 modern cars that shouldn't be taken through an automated carwash etc., with all of the auto-braking, collision controls, and so forth.
9776

[BamaNomad]

I knew there were multiple reasons for NOT taking a car into a 'brush type' carwash!~ wow...

[scorpion1110]

I knew there were multiple reasons for NOT taking a car into a 'brush type' carwash!~ wow...

To quote the most esteemed Dr. Ian Malcolm:

"Just because you can do something, doesnt mean you should do something."

[markm]

I feel sorry for the little girl but do not morn the loss of a Niceler miniature van one bit

[Gmvette]

I'm an engineer....I like modern technology. It performs better, more efficient, more accurate, etc, etc, etc. It's called progress.


You must like vintage stuff some where in there since you are building a trifive. A trifive was modern almost 65 years ago. Just think in 25 to 30 years from now everything you are doing to the car will be obsolete.

[WagonCrazy]

Sorry guys...but following this post requires me to stop and get some popcorn.
How about we go back to CNut's original discussion of the gauge packages for his 56 Nomad?

[scorpion1110]

Sorry guys...but following this post requires me to stop and get some popcorn.
How about we go back to CNut's original discussion of the gauge packages for his 56 Nomad?

Actually I think its a pretty good discussion. And its lead to some interesting perspective. And I love popcorn.

So I say let it roll.

[markm]

You must like vintage stuff some where in there since you are building a trifive. A trifive was modern almost 65 years ago. Just think in 25 to 30 years from now everything you are doing to the car will be obsolete.

If we all are still around then my stock cluster will still be doing its thing and Cnut will still be working on his car with its C12 suspension that makes C4 almost stagecoach tech.

[55 Rescue Dog]

Actually I think its a pretty good discussion. And its lead to some interesting perspective. And I love popcorn.

So I say let it roll.
It's better than no discussion at all.

[busterwivell]

Well, I'm done reading this thread..............

[Gmvette]

Not sure what you're referring to since you didn't say. Have you ever seen a VHX in person? I have.....I have one. The tach is as big as the speedo. Gauges are easy to read....easy as any modern car IMO. Once you get used to where the smaller ones are, it's just a glance....just like a new car.



SO who's going to put a 57 gauge cluster in a 55 or 56? Nobody. Gauges below the dash are too old school for me. I hate seeing a tach on the top of the dash except maybe in a race car.




All the VHX functions are controlled by a computer. They have several warnings that can be programmed....speedometer, tach and fuel gauge are programmable which means you can use any fuel sender, and even calibrate one. Speedo is calibrated by driving a mile. It has tons of nice features. I wish it had user-defined colors like the HDX gauges, but I got the black and white setup because I think it looks more OEM and I don't like blue or red LEDs.

Stepper motors reset and re-calibrate every time power is applied. The computer tells them where to point the indicator. All new cars have used them for many years and they're a lot more repeatable and accurate than old wire wound movements. ........


I’m just looking at what is in the photo. And no I don’t think any instrument are readable while driving except the speedometer which could be smaller to facilitate the other gauges being bigger.. Tach is way too small for a stick shift car. Nobody said anything about tach being on top of the dash like a race car, I agree that sucks. Gauges below dash ......old school. A ‘55 Nomad is kind’a old ...... 64 years old. The programmable and calibration while driving or stepper motor reset features and led colors are of no consequence. In MHO, I would just want speed, RPM’s, volts/charge, temperature, and oil pressure. Obtaining it in the most simplistic form that is reliable, readable at a glance.

A possible image projected on the windshield might be more visible, except in bright sun.

[chevynut]

I was gone to Wyoming branding calves this weekend and just got back last night.

Since RD is so clueless I thought I'd post this...

https://patents.google.com/patent/US8935053B2/en

"Aspects of the disclosure provide for controlling a hood latch using an electrically actuated primary hood latch and an electrically actuated secondary hood latch. To open the hood of the vehicle, a person presses a hood release button. Before attempting to release either the primary hood latch or secondary hood latch, a determination is made whether a vehicle speed of the vehicle is below a minimum vehicle speed threshold. If the vehicle speed is below this threshold, both the primary electrical actuator for the primary hood latch and the secondary electrical actuator for the secondary hood latch are triggered, thereby releasing hood from a closed position into an open position."

The patent above is from Tesla.

There are lots of new cars with electric hood releases...my Porsche is one of them, and you can find them on other Porsches, Audis, VWs, Ferraris, and many other newer vehicles. I'll bet they're speed interlocked so they can't open above a certain speed. And they don't add as much weight as a full roll cage that's absolutely ridiculous for a street car. :D

[markm]

I was gone to Wyoming branding calves this weekend and just got back last night.

Since RD is so clueless I thought I'd post this...

https://patents.google.com/patent/US8935053B2/en

"Aspects of the disclosure provide for controlling a hood latch using an electrically actuated primary hood latch and an electrically actuated secondary hood latch. To open the hood of the vehicle, a person presses a hood release button. Before attempting to release either the primary hood latch or secondary hood latch, a determination is made whether a vehicle speed of the vehicle is below a minimum vehicle speed threshold. If the vehicle speed is below this threshold, both the primary electrical actuator for the primary hood latch and the secondary electrical actuator for the secondary hood latch are triggered, thereby releasing hood from a closed position into an open position."

The patent above is from Tesla.

There are lots of new cars with electric hood releases...my Porsche is one of them, and you can find them on other Porsches, Audis, VWs, Ferraris, and many other newer vehicles. I'll bet they're speed interlocked so they can't open above a certain speed. And they don't add as much weight as a full roll cage that's absolutely ridiculous for a street car. :D

Do you have a cordless digital branding iron.

[Gmvette]

Do you have a cordless digital branding iron.

After reading the post this reply’s to it is just plain funny. Made me laugh out loud.

[55 Rescue Dog]

I was gone to Wyoming branding calves this weekend and just got back last night.

Since RD is so clueless I thought I'd post this...

https://patents.google.com/patent/US8935053B2/en

"Aspects of the disclosure provide for controlling a hood latch using an electrically actuated primary hood latch and an electrically actuated secondary hood latch. To open the hood of the vehicle, a person presses a hood release button. Before attempting to release either the primary hood latch or secondary hood latch, a determination is made whether a vehicle speed of the vehicle is below a minimum vehicle speed threshold. If the vehicle speed is below this threshold, both the primary electrical actuator for the primary hood latch and the secondary electrical actuator for the secondary hood latch are triggered, thereby releasing hood from a closed position into an open position."

The patent above is from Tesla.

There are lots of new cars with electric hood releases...my Porsche is one of them, and you can find them on other Porsches, Audis, VWs, Ferraris, and many other newer vehicles. I'll bet they're speed interlocked so they can't open above a certain speed And they don't add as much weight as a full roll cage that's absolutely ridiculous for a street car. :D[/QUOTE]
I think this was a street car.
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/da/c6/ff/dac6ffe64c5e6d6819c4aff36e9bd304---chevrolet-rat-rods.jpg

[Gmvette]

Sure this is not a chopped top?

[55 Rescue Dog]

And then, I think about just the couple layers of sheet metal 16 inches away from the frame rails, and the seats are outboard of the frame. I didn't worry enough about safety riding motorcycles when I was young, but now I always try and dress for the crash.
https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrEzOAKMQBdgBoA8bCJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBs Z29xY3ZzBHNlYwNzZWFyY2gEc2xrA2J1dHRvbg--;_ylc=X1MDOTYwNjI4NTcEX3IDMgRhY3RuA2NsawRjc3JjcHZp ZANPbDdJY0RFd0xqSVduRW9TWFBfN3VBUGtNalF1TVFBQUFBQX NTQ05TBGZyA3lmcC10BGZyMgNzYS1ncARncHJpZAM1NEFpVExW dFJ3bWU0X01DejRmY1RBBG5fc3VnZwMwBG9yaWdpbgNpbWFnZX Muc2VhcmNoLnlhaG9vLmNvbQRwb3MDMARwcXN0cgMEcHFzdHJs AwRxc3RybAMyMARxdWVyeQMxOTU2JTIwY2hldnklMjBjcmFzaA R0X3N0bXADMTU2MDI5Mzc0Mw--?p=1956+chevy+crash&fr=yfp-t&fr2=sb-top-images.search&ei=UTF-8&n=60&x=wrt#id=13&iurl=https%3A%2F%2Fs-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com%2F736x%2Fd3%2F01%2F40%2Fd301408fbf8 e1fce8aa636b6b24644fb.jpg&action=click

[Rick_L]

I’m just looking at what is in the photo. And no I don’t think any instrument are readable while driving except the speedometer which could be smaller to facilitate the other gauges being bigger.. Tach is way too small for a stick shift car.

That may be true of the RTX, but I see the VHX as very readable with all the gauges being appropriately sized (at least within the constraints of a 55-56 instrument cluster), and the tach is big enough for anything but a race car.

[Gmvette]

That may be true of the RTX, but I see the VHX as very readable with all the gauges being appropriately sized (at least within the constraints of a 55-56 instrument cluster), and the tach is big enough for anything but a race car.

This is the cluster we are referring to, right, how are these gauges above the speedometer of any use at all while driving? Especially the tach? Two of the digest on the speedometer are bigger than the whole dam tachometer. Most of this cluster face is wasted nothing. I don’t follow your logic.

[Gmvette]

This one is better but the sweep directions are not consistent min to max.

[55 Rescue Dog]

This one is better but the sweep directions are not consistent min to max.
It looks pretty good except the 160mph speedo is a bit optimistic on a tri5. It would be easier to read with a 120mph scale.

[BamaNomad]

It looks pretty good except the 160mph speedo is a bit optimistic on a tri5. It would be easier to read with a 120mph scale.

I totally agree RD... probably 50-60 mph 'overshoot'! A 160 mph speedo in a trifive (and most cars) serves only as a detriment to reading what the speed actually is (way less than 120, much less than 160); the owner is only fooling themselves?

[markm]

One of the things I really like about a 55/56 is the dash and cluster. I see room for improvement, but find those examples too busy. I don't know anyone who needs a 160 mph speedo in one of these cars.

[55 Rescue Dog]

I would also agree that the stock cluster with its simple timeless design, and soft incandescent lighting, cannot be beat with anything else out there. I would consider using the speedo, and fuel gauge, and use auxiliary gauges for the rest. If someone came up with a reasonably priced stepper motor movement conversion for the stock speedometer needle that would be awesome. GPS controlled too. I don't know much about a VSS to mechanical speedo converter, but it doesn't seem like a great idea either.
9782

[Gmvette]

The stock one is a winner and all the gauges go in the same direction min to max as it should.

[55 Rescue Dog]

The stock one is a winner and all the gauges go in the same direction min to max as it should.
Yes, and I always remember from long ago, the best dial orientation is so all of the needles point straight up under normal conditions, and then it take less time to read them so you can focus more on what's ahead. The speedometer on the stock cluster just happens to point straight north at 60mph.

[markm]

WTF RD is that dash pic a 55 1/2 210 Belair

[567chevys]

55 to 56



Sid