Gauge Wiring, Dash Panel, Misc.

Today we started by first shaping the aluminum dash panel to fit the contours of the dash at each end. After that we test fit it with the under dash panel we purchased by drilling a few holes. We also carpeted the under dash panel.
Next, we did a lot of wiring for the gauges. We made a wiring harness for the back-lighting and each gauges function. Scott added a connector at the end so the entire harness can be disconnected if the dash ever needs to be removed.

Because all the gauges are mechanical we've had to add a few things to the motor which took some time. At the port where the oil filter mounts we took the stock harnesses plug out and put the sending unit for the Autometer gauge. We didn't drain the motor so this was a bit messy. On the driver side behind the motor mount we removed a plug and put the water temp sending unit in. Again we didn't drain the coolant so this made a mess. We found a good place for the oil temp at the bottom port of the oil filter housing but I need to buy a new adapter to mount the sending unit. It looks like the fuel gauge just splices into the stock harness somewhere and the voltmeter is of course the same.

FFR sent us a mechanical speedometer which is incorrect because of the year of our donor, so we need to wait on the new electronic gauge to finish the dash and gauges. We also need to run wires from each sending unit to the dash.

FFR includes a toggle switch for the blinkers so we may order something which mounts on the column. Other than that we figured out a few more things needed and how to mount them.

Passenger Seat and Harness

Today I was able to mount the passenger seat. A friend helped weld the top of the bolts to the seat bracket. By doing this I was able to mount the seat to the bracket and just drop everything in place, then put the nuts on from underneath the car. I also mounted the harness and adjusted both driver and passenger harness for a better fit.

Lastly, I bought a piece of carpet to put at the rear of the transmission tunnel and complete the carpeting.

Defrost Vents, Carpet, Driver Seat & Harness

I received the defrost vents and could finish the heater. I cut holes and mounted the tubing and vents.
Next I installed all the interior carpeting except one piece that didn't quite fit right. I was then able to re-install the driver seat, and install the harness.


I also mounted the shift boot.


I'm missing a couple bolts on the passenger side so tomorrow Ill finish the passenger seat and harness installation.