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| Does your intstrument cluster need a make over? A simple gauge face panel may help customize your dash.
Upgrading the appearance of your truck's interior doesn't have to involve expensive upholstery work. Installing a new instrument cluster gauge face is one of the least expensive, yet most noticeable upgrades you can do to dramatically change the look of your truck's interior.
There are multitudes of styles and looks available, ranging from sporty to full custom. The most common upgrade is changing from the factory black instrument panel to a whiteface panel. However, recent models now come with nice, whiteface or cream-face gauges. Platinum gauge face are also popular and some gauge panels include various colors and flames that can add a distinctive, custom look to your truck.
With the growing popularity of aftermarket instrument cluster colors and styles, manufacturers have come up with flamed Gauges or lighted Gauges that glow in the color of your choice. Many are known as "indiglow" Gauges that have a green, blue and read glow that is most visible at night.
Keep in mind that not all gauge faces are made the same. Some may make it difficult to see the check engine and other information Lights that are on the gauge face. High quality gauge faces are usually higher in price, but the difference in how visible the information is on the gauge is worth the extra few dollars.
Depending on the application, installation is relatively simple. Get a Chilton manual or other repair manual for your specific make, model and year vehicle, to find out how to properly remove the dash panel surround. In most cases, they are simply held in with clips and a gentle tug will remove it. The steering wheel must be tilted downward and in some cases the key must be in the ignition to move the gear selector level to the Drive 1 position.
Before you start however, make sure to mark or take notes on the position of the instrument needles. We recommend doing this upgrade with a full tank of gas, so the needle reads full, and when the vehicle is dead cold. Turn the ignition key to the on position and note where the needles point. If you have a digital camera or Polaroid camera, take a shot for reference. Another method is to borrow a scan tool that will tell you exactly what temperature, fuel level and amp readings the engine�s computer sees. This makes reinstalling the needles much more accurate, and you can do it with the engine running.
Some aftermarket gauge panels come with a handy needle removal tool. These work great to pry off the needle. Be careful, as they are fragile, and set them in a place where you recognize where they came from. |
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| Daytona Edition Gauge Face Kit |
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$99.99
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| Stainless Steel Edition Gauge Face Kit |
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$199.99
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| Escalade Edition Gauge Face Kit |
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$239.99
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| Aqua Edition Gauge Face Kit |
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$259.99
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