Poor mans electronic speedo conversion

[supwicha]

Hello all, looking for some suggestions/feedback on my cluster project. I have recently converted my '79 to a later model EFI LT1 setup from a Caprice. In an effort to control cost, I did not want to change tailshaft housing to have a VSS signal at $500. I also wanted to maintain the stock cluster appearance. I gutted the sppedometer head and updated it with components from an '05 Chevy Aveo and will use the original PCB wired to the PCM. I should be able to update the decal for a perfect match although it is surprisingly a close match. I should also be able to update the calibration via the PCM. Has anyone ever tried this type of conversion before? If so, how did it work out for you? So far I'm into it for $18.

 

[Da-bigguy]

That looks pretty good. Have you got it installed and running yet? I'd like to know how that goes.

 

[harbone66]

Nice work, heck it even kind of matches!

 

[supwicha]

I do not have it installed yet. I still have about 25 hours more of work to complete my LT1 conversion. As well as some other miscellaneous items. I figure I'm 6-8 weeks out before I resume the cluster project. I'll update when I get there, thanks for your interest.

 

[cvhu]

i used the same speedo for my conversion, it works but its off by 10 kms per hour

 

[supwicha]

i used the same speedo for my conversion, it works but its off by 10 kms per hour

Have you attempted to modify the calibration in your PCM? Thanks

 

[hogg]

Can't you just move the hand?

 

[supwicha]

Can't you just move the hand?

Most likely he is describing an issue related to accuracy over a various range of speed and not a needle being stuck at a certain position. Electric speedometers normally self center at zero at startup. It may be that the pcm needs the correct tire/gearing combination to work.

 

[cvhu]

supwicha is correct the accuracy is off by 10kms but i am working on a way to fix it

 

[80sz]

Can you put stock pointer on new spedo? Looks nice