Hi,
I just replaced my instrument gauges with Autometer 2 1/16" Sport Comp II series gauges. They look great and I'm really glad I did it. I wasn't planning on changing the speedometer or tachometer but after seeing the instrument gauges, I have put them on the list (finishing my body work and paint is my #1 priority right now though!).
To do the instrument gauges, I used a piece of thin Lexan from Lowes and cut it to fit the contour of the top section of the console. Cut the holes for the gauges and then cut away the interfering plastic on the original console. I attached the piece I made with three small button head screws. (I also added 6 LEDs that I will use for turn signal indicators, brake light, and highbeam indicator once I add the other gauges.) I moved the charging lamp circuit to the bulb housing at the top of the console. You can't really see it, which is what I wanted.
I then snipped off the connector that plugs into the stock gauges and made a Molex connection for the gauges so I can quickly and easily disconnect if I have to remove the console.
Here are a couple pics. (Sorry, they aren't too clear and I didn't really take any pics showing any "in progress" shots.)
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1977 Corvette EX-L48
383 Stroker, Holley MPFI, MSD Ignition, BTO 700R4, VBP Street/Slalom, Hooker Sidepipes with JCL Spiral Baffles, Corbeau A4s w/ Shark Bar and Simpson 5-Points, 17" AR TTII's, Kumho MX's
(click to see a bigger version)