Yes, there are links on the web on how to modify your existing gauge cluster for use with aftermarket gauges. It's a little bit of work, but nothing that can't be done by the novice.

However, I think you're making a mistake. The gauge cluster houses precision instruments designed to monitor your engine/car. Do you really want to "cheap out" here? The Autometer Sport-Comp series gauges are the cheapest gauges they sell. What's the difference between a $20 oil pressure gauge and an $80 one? Alot of quality.

Do you want to blow your engine because the needle stuck on your $20oil pressure gauge? I surely don't.

With all of this said, I'm in the process myself of building a new instrument cluster for my '66. Some of the prices for new Autometer gauges are outrageous, so Iknow where you're coming from. Instead of going with the latest and greatest high dollar gauges, I chose the Autometer Phantom Series gauges (I want the white face gauge style). They've been around for a few years and the prices have come down to a reasonable level. I found the lowest web price I could for these gauges and had my local Autozone price match and order me the gauges. They're sitting in the shop now waiting for a new 6 gauge cluster to arrive (probably Tuesday). The instruments set me back $370 and the cluster another $80. I'll have to build a harness for them and that'll probably run about $20. I can't imagine the quality that $165 will get you, but I'm guessing there will be very little.

Good Luck,
Dave

 

i think the stock gauges are a big part of the classic mustang "look" i mean, look at the new mustangs, they've copied the old gauges!!! but that's just me

 

i dont want to cheap out on the gauges. and i dont want to cheap out on anyhting i do on my car. i want it done the right way, once. i dont want to be like my dad and restore a model a once but then dont like the way you did it so restore it again 25 years later.

i deffinately want to spend more than 170 on a complete set of gauges. im hoping to find some in the $300 range.

or my other option is, keep all my current stock gauges, and build a custom center console thatll house the aftermaket gauges.

 

This is what I have done. I have the gauges where the original radio use to be located without cutting up the dash.

 

Yep, I did something very similar as a temporary solution. This "home-made" pod will be coming out after I install my new 6 guage cluster.



Dave

 

restomod66, i really like that set up, my question is where did you find the block off plate or did you have to make it?

 

Made it out of a piece of thin aluminum sheeting. Attached with two screws for easy removal and easy to patch hole in dash if I decide to make any changes??

 

this is on ebay right now... http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Ford-...spagenameZWDVW