Swapping Gauge Clusters

[gtblast]

Is there any reason why I can't just take the entire gauge cluster out of my 70 GT and swap in a complete gauge cluster from a 71 GT? I know the speedometer is different, but that is part of the reason for the change, since I have a later 4spd and I want the speedometer to read correctly. Also, my 70 gauge cluster is cracked and broken and the gauges are faded from age, but the 71 cluster I have is like new. Is there any reason this should not be a simple change?

[hrcollinsjr]

Should be a simple swap. The panels with rectangular indicator lights are the ones you have to do a little extra to swap between them and the later style. If the bottom switches where the hazard flasher is, is different you may want to change that out.

Harold

[denny71gt]

Same question only different years; swapping a '72 cluster into a '71? Do I need to change something i.e., gauge or cable or ? re the speedometer? Or anything else related to the cluster?

Denny

[hrcollinsjr]

Same question only different years; swapping a '72 cluster into a '71? Do I need to change something i.e., gauge or cable or ? re the speedometer? Or anything else related to the cluster?

Denny

Make sure you have the speedo to match the transmission. If they have the same calibration numbers then pick the best looking one that works. Gauges, clocks, rocker switches, and radio are interchangeable. The main difference in the newer style instrument cluster is the hazard flasher switch cluster. The rockers may have symbols or functions labeled but they all are wired the same. Match up the best looking/functioning components and you'll be fine.

HTH,
Harold

[oldopelguy]

There may also be legal issues with the change in the odometer. You will at a minimum have to mark the title to indicate that the odometer is incorrect so that there are no fraud questions later if you decide to sell it. Some states may require more paperwork than others.

With most Opels the mileage is not really an issue, and being honest with a new buyer about the swap will likely add more to the cars value than "odometer discrepancy" on the title would detract.

[hrcollinsjr]

There may also be legal issues with the change in the odometer.

Technically Stephen is probably correct. I believe titles in the state of TN just have a place that you can check that mileage exceeds the limits of the odometer.

I switched out a working speedometer in my BMW and lowered the value. The odometer read 70+K and I replaced it with one reading 135+K but by george it works now, most of the time. Electrical issues!

Harold

[gtblast]

There may also be legal issues with the change in the odometer. You will at a minimum have to mark the title to indicate that the odometer is incorrect so that there are no fraud questions later if you decide to sell it. Some states may require more paperwork than others.

With most Opels the mileage is not really an issue, and being honest with a new buyer about the swap will likely add more to the cars value than "odometer discrepancy" on the title would detract.

Thanks for the replies. I see no reason why this should not be an easy swap. As for the odometer reading and what is indicated on the title, yes, most states require a mileage reading or an indication on the title if the mileage is different or non consistent. My intent is to keep the original 70 speedometer and pass it along to the new owner should I ever sell the car. I suppose, if you wanted to take the time, the replacement speedometer could be taken apart and the odometer set to match the one being replaced. Either way, these are all good points for the correct history of the car for the next owner. Thanks again for the input.

[denny71gt]

Where are the calibration numbers located? My odometers readings are so low and for the condition of the vehicles it wouldn't surprise me if the actual mileages aren't 2**,***!!! And Utah didn't require a mileage reading when I registered them.

Thanks for all the feedback.

Denny