1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Can I just remove just the amp (battery) gauge from the dash of my 1963 vette or do I have to remove the whole cluster? If I can just remove the amp gauge, would anyone have directions to assist? Thanks.
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Ray, it's tough but it can be done. You need to pull both gauges then remove the amp gauge.
Remove the wires from both gauges. Remove the screws that hold both gauges to the bask of the cluster.
Since there is less room behind the cluster than in a 64 to 67 you may need to move the entire cluser out an inch or so to allow you to work behind in. Get 5 bolts with the same thread as the screws that hold the cluster in place. Replace the scres with the bolts. The oil line to the oil gauge will only let you pull it out limited amount. You can also disconnect the oil line.
You also may have to lower the steering column, remove the steering wheel and the drivers seat.
Just reverse the process to reinstall.
Good Luck
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Thanks Harry. Are the screws holding both gauges to the back of the cluster easy to locate?Comment
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Here is a 63 cluster on Ebay. They are easy to spot.
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Just did this on my split window (a bunch of times; replacing a bad original fuel gauge with a bad looking repro; then re-installing an NOS gauge)...
Disconnect the battery, then, remove the front seat, put a pillow in the DS footwell...remove the two screws holding that round ring (escutcheon) around the steering column up against the cluster. With the 1/4X20 stand offs in place of the cluster housing mounting screws, pull the cluster forward as far as you can (the steering column ring will get pushed forward too).
Remove the headlight switch; remove the headlight bucket rollover switch, disconnect the connectors at the fuel and amp gauges...remove the light bulb and socket from the double gauge housing.
With a 1/4" socket remove the three screws holding the double gauge housing for the amp/fuel gauge. There may be a capacitor on the amp gauge secured by the bottom screw, so note its location and connection.
Carefully pull the double gauge housing out of the main cluster, turning it enough to clear the cluster and pull it down for removal...Comment
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Thanks Frank. Your post was extremely helpful. Much appreciated.Comment
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Thanks for the above response, Harry. I am thinking about replacing the dash lights. To do so, would I have to remove the whole cluster?
You previously provided the second part of John Hinckley's article. Would you be able to provide the first part? I would like to research the project before I decide if I want to give it a try.Comment
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
I put the LED lights in with the dash just pulled forward enough to remove the fuel gauge. It was a fight and I’m not sure I’d want to do that again. The upper sockets are tough to get to. So it can be done but not easily. I can post the JohnZ article if Harry doesn’t when I get home tonightComment
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Frank, please post it as I do not have it.
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Re: 1963 amp (Battery) gauge removal
Here are part 1 and part 2 of what I have -- not the best copies but usable...Comment
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