Thread: Gauge Holes - Fiberglass Dash

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Since it is fiberglass I think I'll go for a bit smaller, like 2" and maybe 3.125" and then sand to fit. I'm a bit concerned with 3.125" for the big ones, as that is only 1/32" small, and they caution not to go too big. Thanks for all of the input.

Originally Posted by rspears

Since it is fiberglass I think I'll go for a bit smaller, like 2" and maybe 3.125" and then sand to fit. I'm a bit concerned with 3.125" for the big ones, as that is only 1/32" small, and they caution not to go too big. Thanks for all of the input.

If the dash comes out, I suggest a drill press. Those #@$% hole saws really like to grab and move around ( I have a scar from a 4 incher to prove that statement ). If not, start it s-l-o-o-w

The bore undersize, and open up with a drum sander is what I did with this '32 dash. I did as Dave suggested, bored slow in the blank out of the car. With this one I did the "insert" piece then sunk it into the dash surface. It looks similar to an old SW panel shape but I had no pattern so just did what looked good to me. As an aside, after bonding it to the dash panel, I formed a 1/4" half round bead around the opening to give it a more interesting appearance. Then got some sheet stock engine turned panel and cut to shape to back the gauges.