1940 Ford Tudor Build Thread

[40FordDeluxe]

Thanks guys! I think it turned out pretty sweet. A page or so ago I was thinking of ways to make my 5" Auto Meter gauges work in my dash without modifying the stock dash. Luckily, the 5" gauges are closer to 3 1/4" under the lens. I got to thinking maybe I could make a dash insert for 2 3 3/8" gauges work. I was trying to find a finned aluminum one but didn't have much luck and then I found what I thought would be the next best look for a 70s themed hot rod. An engine turned panel! I do believe I'll be incorporating more of this in the interior. I've always liked the looks of engine turned pieces.

I knew there would be some work to make the gauges fit. I began grinding the bezel to get the gauges to fit. Unfortunately, the only they would fit is if I notched the edges of the gauges. That was a little nerve racking taking the death wheel to a pair of $500 gauges. I did open up them a little but I plan to seal them back up and they should be good. I'll re paint the bezels and the mods should be harder to spot.

Next was to get the insert to actually fit the dash. I wonder if they sent me a truck one? Oh well, too late as I already started chop cut, rebuilding on it. I've got it fitting pretty decent now. Next is to find a way to hold the insert to the dash and cut down the gauge hold downs so I can secure the gauges to the insert. It's coming together.