'64 Dash Cluster

[Dale M.]

Can anyone confirm which model year dash cluster will fit a '64. I have now heard a lot of different versions.

My dash cluster is broken out at the bottom where the steering column passes through. I have a second cluster, but the chrome on the gage rims is pitted. Any update on repairing this?

Thanks Dale

[Bob R.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

The steering wheel opening on the 63 cluster is different and if it is used on a 64 you would need a filler piece to fill a gap. I believe the 64-67 will all fit in a 64.

[Brian T.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Yes the 64 or the 65-67 will work. If you want it right, look for the "lock" at the ignition. 65-67 does not have those letters on the housing.

[Dale M.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Thanks, I understand some of what I heard. They will fit, but they are not actual matches. The '64 has a part number 6408084 that I assume will be different on the other mid-years. I will try to restore the pitted one I purchased last year to have it correct.

Appreciate your help.

[Andrew P.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Restoring the pitted one is best. If you have a GREAT plater, you could have him dip, weld/fill & plate the thing then sent it to corvette specialties for the detail repaint. They did a superior job on my 64 cluster. You can also find clusters on craigslist on occasion.

I have the PPG formula for the correct semi-flat low luster black paint if you are a paint guy :-). Ditto with the dark blue interior vinyl dye. Ecklers dye was too flat so I had a custom DuPont mixed up.

-Drew

[Dale M.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

I had one of my local vette club members say that re-chroming the cluster may round off the edges around the gauges bezels and may effect the graining on the background. What is you experience on this? I also expect the chroming to be very expensive? I will do the painting, what is the number for the PPG paint?

Thanks for you help, I appreciate very much.

Dale

[Andrew P.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Hi Dale,

Unless you're going to use the black on other things as well, I'd think it would be cheaper to let Corvette Specialties do it for you. Real Automotive paint is expensive.
Black:PPG DCC9300 3 parts
Flattener:PPG 3 parts
Reducer: PPG 1/2 part
Hardener:PPG 1 part
Spray using a detail gun then wait about 20 minutes then give it a final "mist". This is a very close visual match to what gm did in the 60's. I got my detail gun from harbor freight for about 13.00.

On the chroming, the gauge bezels are a separate issue since they are not on the main housing. On the main housing, the only concern is the outside edge where the pitting normally occurrs. That's the only non-painted visible area. A good chromer should be able to do he job well. The chrome is a 3 stage process but is so thin that your grain will not be affected to any large degree unless he screws up and you end up with "bubbles". On the Gauge bezels, they are painted with what appears to be the same color as used on the 64 hubcaps (flat aluminum) and the only visible part that is chrome is the very top edge.

Depending on your budget and how far you want to take this, I'd still recommend corvete specialties. My entire cluster was shot including 2 of the gauges. They completely refurbed it (not including chroming on the housing) for about a grand. THAT was a great deal all things considered.

-AP

[Dale M.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Thanks, I am on my way to completing this project. I do have a local Professional Restorer that does a lot dashes. He is doing most of the work and you are correct, its about a grand.

[Andrew P.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Keep the info on the paint. It's about the same everywhere on the mid-years. The frame is slightly more glossy and the engine compartment in-between the two. It's all in the "misting" LoL...

-Drew

I've got some extra parts. Anything you need?

[Dale M.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Another question. I need to replace the rubber anti-rattle lens gaskets. I read that you can use 3M Black Strip Caulk. Where can I find a small supply. I have not found it locally and on the internet they wan to sell me a case. What can you recommend?

What is the best method to mask off the chrome accent rim at the top edge of the gauge bezel. Is there some method to keep the 1/8" masking tape in a smooth ring around the bezel?

Dale Maris
#48325

[William C.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

If you have a NAPA store nearby, that is where I have purchase the strip caulk, a small box is a lifetime supply, but it isn't expensive, at least as Corvette parts go.

[Andrew P.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Hi Dale,

I used blue painters tape then ran the edge with an VERY sharp exacto knife. It came out great.

-Drew

[Dale M.]

Re: '64 Dash Cluster

Thanks again. Dale