New gauges for my 81 z28

[Austin Frazier]

Hello, first time posting on the site, i've got a 81 z28 and im in desperate need of new gauges. I do not want digital as they are too expensive and way beyond me as far as installation goes. I am stuck between buying a used gauge cluster off of ebay for like $200 or going for autometer z series gauges for around $525, any opinions on which option i should go with here? Thanks.

 

[Goodwrench1965]

I replaced my gauges years ago with Auto-Meter in a Covan's wood grain insert. I like the gauges. I wish I had purchase an electric speedometer instead of the one I have that uses the factory speedometer cable. The cable I think is more trouble to deal with every time I remove and install the dash insert. Since this photo was taken I've added air fuel ratio and vacuum gauges to right side which are nice.

 

[Goodwrench1965]

 

[Goodwrench1965]

 

[Twisted_Metal]

Does your 81Z still have its computer?
If so (and you want to keep it)... You need a speedometer with a Vehicle Speed Sensor.

 

[owen1980]

What is wrong with the cluster you have now?

 

[dailycruiser81]

I'm taking my cluster out soon. 81 z28

 

[80sz]

A digital speedo is nice if you have changed gears,transmissions and tire size. Press button go for two mile ride and calibrated.

 

[Bandit723]

I would go with the Dakota digital offering if you can swing it should be a direct fit for the car. Push a few buttons to calibrate do a little driving and you are good. Does take a bit to install but should not be any worse than putting in auto meter gauges "by the way these work nice as well" At one point i was pretty dead set on not changing from the original gauges but once i installed the digital ones i would never go back.

 

[Zspoiler]

I have had a friend of mine make a dash panel out of Aluminum. (He and his Dad built aluminum fishing boats) I used my original on for a template.(At this time there was no aftermarket gauge set ups) I used a Auto Meter Monster Tach.and a matching Speedometer.And a Variety of 2"Auto meter gauges. I made brackets for my factory switches.Plus I put a few inside my 6" Glas Tek cowl hood. Back in the day we didnt have the parts availability we have now.So we had to get creative. So it is sometime to think outside the box.