1979 Coupe clock change

[Ken C.]

I need to replace the clock in my 79 Vette. I do know that there is screws at the top of the bezel (2) and one on each side. Is there any others I should be aware of. Also how big a task is it in changing the clock, tired of getting docked points for and in operative clock. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[Tom R.]

Re: 1979 Coupe clock change

Ken

I have done this a number of times on my 78 and it seems the 79 was configured the same way. The driver's console (where shift comes out of) is screwed into the center console at the bottom corner of each side so, as I recall, you have to remove or loosen the two side carpet pieces to access the screw on either side. Once you loosen the center console you can reach around and remove the clock mechanism. And those tabs break easily that connect the two consoles so be patient. If that happens, the judges deduct because the fit lacks the supposed preciseness when it was shipped from the factory.

So...clock removal is relatively easy. The carpet removal may be the most challenging...finding those screws buried in the carpet fiber in three places. Front, center and than rear behind the seat.

[Ken C.]

Re: 1979 Coupe clock change

Thanks Tom for the information. Wasn't aware of the screws connecting the console and bezel. Looks like I have my work cut out for me this weekend. Once again thanks for the advice it is appreciated.

Ken

[Terry M.]

Re: 1979 Coupe clock change

Thanks Tom for the information. Wasn't aware of the screws connecting the console and bezel. Looks like I have my work cut out for me this weekend. Once again thanks for the advice it is appreciated.

Ken

In dealing with Corvette C3 (maybe other generations too) interiors there us no substitute for the appropriate AIM (Assembly Instruction Manual). Those screws and fasteners can be well hidden and the best way to know they are there, and where they are, is the illustrations in the AIM. No offense to Tom's description, but in this case an illustration is worth a thousand words. One can do a lot of unintended damage by charging forward and tugging inappropriately.

[Tom R.]

Re: 1979 Coupe clock change

Thanks Tom for the information. Wasn't aware of the screws connecting the console and bezel. Looks like I have my work cut out for me this weekend. Once again thanks for the advice it is appreciated.

And Terry's cautionary note is worth noting. Those tabs are easy to break so the patience and a good visual guide will minimize unintended damage.

[Ken C.]

Re: 1979 Coupe clock change

Thanks for your suggestion. I do have the 1979 Corvette Assembly Manual, is the same as the one you suggest. Having problems finding a page with the bezel
Ken

[Tom R.]

Re: 1979 Coupe clock change

Ken

Start with page 73. You'll see the driver's console bezel and those tabs on the ends that are broken so easy. The AIM refers to it as the tunnel console trim plate...like who would have guessed. Page 74 shows center console to the tunnel console. Page 75 shows the side console carpet screws.

I see it referred to on page 134 as the console cluster trim plate and on page 495 it shows a "cluster assembly" which is the console cluster. See if that helps.

I'm bouncing between my 78 AIM and the 79 where page counts differ.

PS...I just update my 78 AIM Index based on this bezel search...now I know where to look for the three bezels scattered throughout the AIM.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1979 Coupe clock change

Tom,

Unless 1978-79 are different, I hope Ken has am AIM from the same publisher as yours. Otherwise those page numbers won't mean Jack to him. It is best to use UPC # and Sheet #. They all have those on the same page.