The PO cut two holes for guages on the vertical rectangular panel to the right of the radio and ashtray. I already have volt, fuel, water and oil guages on the main dash panel so I'm looking for ideas of what I can do. I've thought about a clock and a vacuum guage but figured I would ask here for some additional ideas?
I have the same issue, so best guess is personal preferance to clock and or vacuum or cut a sheet of alum to fit on the inside of the rectangle, polish it, use the 3-m body adhesive and glue it into place.....I haven`t got that far yet...!
For sure use a vacuum gage. I installed one in my '65 and there is so much you can learn about your engine from them, plus they are cool to watch! My Dad had a '65 Impala SS when I was 5 years old, it had the "Manifold Vaccum" gauge on the dash.... I was mesmerized by it. Check this link out and toggle down to the 12 interactive scenarios: http://www.secondchancegarage.com/public/186.cfm As for the other hole, are you running an automatic or manual? How about a transmission temp gauge? And finally, if you don;t like anu of the above, how about cutting the opening out and install another heater control cover that bolts in (#18 shown below)?
I have a manual trans. But these are some good ideas. I never thought of using another heater control cover!