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Posted by: 914forme Oct 4 2004, 02:19 PM

Okay a recent post got people interested in this item once again. So since I did part of the orginal kit, I thought I would offer up to do them again.

Price I am not sure yet, shooting for below $100 shipped, will try to make it less than that.

So here you go what all is in the kit and what is not.

Backing plate, silver cadium plated, laser cut so acuracy is with in 0.0001" not bad. My plater does this stuff plating for a lot of space and aviation industry people.

Front Plate - CNC milled to get the bevel into the face. Powder coated, then the faces are silk screened. I make them with out the hole drilled for the silver button, I provide a template for use if you want to drill it. Or I may just have a batch made with some holes and some with out. The face will then be screened with the gauge names onto it.

It will have a gound spade lug, instructions, and great care and packing.

So if you have interest let me know I will start the ball rolling, which I have already done, I have the Machinist, platter and powder-coater all lined up. So what am I missing??????

A silk-screener - I need a excellent silk screener, recommendations are allowed, needs to be high quality, and professional.

Okay if you are interested I will start a list here, this will be a 914 club exclusive. But once they are gone, I will do this only this time. Twice is a too much.

So let me know your interest and if you want the center dot cut out or make it a flat panel.

Pictures to follow latter tonight once I get some new ones.

Thanks, Stephen

Posted by: bondo Oct 4 2004, 02:26 PM

I want one! Is there an easy way to make it fuel, oil pressure and water temp? (V8 conversion) What guages fit in it? Is the scale on the guages part of the kit, or is that part of the guage? (I've never had one apart) From the pics in the other thread they look real nice.

Posted by: bondo Oct 4 2004, 02:29 PM

Oh, and I'd want the silver button type, but wouldn't mind drilling the hole myself.

Posted by: ppickerell Oct 4 2004, 02:35 PM

I have single color silk screen capability in my shop as well as lser cutting and CNC machining. I alos have excellent platers and powdercoaters local.

Posted by: AndrewBlyholder Oct 4 2004, 02:46 PM

Count me in as interested. I think I know what this will look like, but I'd like to see your pictures to confirm. Where is the previous thread?

Thanks,
Andrew

Posted by: bondo Oct 4 2004, 02:58 PM

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?act=ST&f=2&t=18026

Posted by: Mark Henry Oct 4 2004, 03:01 PM

If it's done the same (or better) as the old bird kit...I'm in!


Attached image(s)

Posted by: lapuwali Oct 4 2004, 03:06 PM

Bondo,

The gauges in the 914 and 911 combo gauges, consist of the gauge modules that have the face, the needle, and the guts that drive the needle. The mentioned kit (and the NH/PA Speedo units) take these modules and fit them all into one case. If you use 911 numbered gauges, you get gauges with numbers, requiring 911 senders. You can use the 911 oil temp gauge and sender for water, though you're not likely to use more than the lower third of the gauge unless you've got serious overheating problems. The 911 oil pressure gauge also reads way up there (10 bar or 150 psi).

Posted by: synthesisdv Oct 4 2004, 03:10 PM

kind of a hijack (can't find hijack smile)

but I'm in the middle of making new gauge faces for oil temp, psi and tach.

I really wanted the dial with the silver button in the middle so I had to take apart the stock unit and cut out the plastic light shroud from the face.

The new faces are just printed on adhesive vinyl. Good for about 1 year in direct sun or pretty much forever if you keep the car inside.

Had to change the tach to extend rpm range and put new redline.

No, those aren't pirated 914club graphics.


Attached image(s)

Posted by: echocanyons Oct 4 2004, 03:22 PM

I am interested in one with the silver button.

Thanks for doing this

Posted by: Aaron Cox Oct 4 2004, 03:23 PM

i am in....

Posted by: Root_Werks Oct 4 2004, 03:26 PM

Assembled this kit before. Silver button, count me in. If you do this, thanks in advance. I remember what a PITA it was for you last time. But the product turned out awesome! I already have my 911 donor gauge!

Posted by: synthesisdv Oct 4 2004, 03:32 PM

Be aware that the silver center button is riveted or swaged in place. Not so easy to remove and re-install. I was going to remove it and install it in my donor 911 gauge but it looked too dicy.

Posted by: anthony Oct 4 2004, 03:33 PM

Interested!

Posted by: AndrewBlyholder Oct 4 2004, 03:49 PM

Having seen the pictures, I'm a definite now.

Andrew

Posted by: bjorn jacobson Oct 4 2004, 05:15 PM

One with a silver button would be awesome! I'm in for one.

Posted by: 914helo Oct 4 2004, 05:41 PM

Get me down for another one with the silver. Thanks for all the hard work putting this together.

Posted by: plas76targa Oct 4 2004, 05:47 PM

Stephen,

Count me in. I had PM'd you on the earlier post.
What's the difference with the silver button you mention, with or with out?

Thx,

Posted by: RD Evans Oct 4 2004, 08:17 PM

Please add me to the list!

Posted by: Carrera916 Oct 4 2004, 08:23 PM

YES!

Count me in...maybe two!


j

Posted by: lagunero Oct 4 2004, 08:44 PM

I'm in for one! Silver button.

Posted by: markb Oct 4 2004, 09:00 PM

Me too! Me too!

Silver button, please.

Posted by: drew365 Oct 4 2004, 09:14 PM

I don't need one, but here's a pic of mine I built from an old bird kit. I hope this kit will use the newer style modules instead of the old spade with paper isolators. They were a real pain to put together.


Attached image(s)

Posted by: ynotdd Oct 5 2004, 07:17 AM

I will take one !! silver button please. What year 911 gauges work with it? This comes at a great time oil temp , pressure gauges are on my winter project list!! Thanks !!!!

Posted by: Root_Werks Oct 5 2004, 08:08 AM

I will see if I can dig up some old pic's and scan them. The one I did was pretty straight forward. I think pretty much any 911 combo gauge works as you just need the gauges from it. Basically you take this kit, your 914 gauge and a 911 combo gauge to make the 904 style gauge. About the only tools you would need would be a Dremel and 2-part epoxy glue. The instructions would tell the rest of the story. Something to do while watching the news after dinner one night.

I am excited! Can't wait!

Posted by: fiid Oct 5 2004, 08:23 AM

Hijack question: Anyone know where I can get a console size fuel guage? (i.e. 2 1/4 or something?? )

Tanks,

Fiid.

Posted by: synthesisdv Oct 5 2004, 08:31 AM

egauges.com

Posted by: cgnj Oct 5 2004, 08:44 AM

Hi,
I assembled one of the old kits.
[QUOTE]I hope this kit will use the newer style modules instead of the old spade with paper isolators. They were a real pain to put together.


I think it would be much easier if it would accept the late fuel guage and if the front plate had the "hooks" instead of cutting them from the donor guages and gluing them on. I modified the the backing plate so I could use a late guage.

I'd buy another for the 73, maybe two. With or without buttons.

Carlos

Posted by: Nick Oct 5 2004, 08:50 AM

I would like one as well

Posted by: porschefool Oct 5 2004, 11:22 AM

Count me in!
I still want a center console, maybe I'll put the volt, clock (yecchh) and CHT gauges in that.

Posted by: 914forme Oct 5 2004, 05:55 PM

Front plates with the tabs require a much thiner piece of metal in order to make it work. And a really nice die and press to form it. Mucho more money unless I cut them out by hand and hammer form them myself. Dang that would drive the cost up also.

I was working on a design that would use the orginal face cut out and bonded to it. But that is a process that I gave up on for the problem of cutting the whole thing out. But I am open to suggestions on improvement and the like. I will see what I can do to make the kit more assembly friendly.

And yes they are the same quality as the Old Bird kits - they where the same kits! But adding the new style connector is something I have thought about, will see what I can do.

Thanks everybody, it is well on the way, keep everyone informed here.

Posted by: John Jentz Oct 5 2004, 06:18 PM

I built one of the old kits, if you reduce the OD of the face plate it will fit inside the donor face plate. That way, after you nibble away the old you will be left with a ring with the tabs still attached. This makes it much easier to mount the new face plate.

I second the motion to modify the back plate to use the modular fuel gauge. The old style is a real PITA. the forks broke off on mine resulting in a real kludge.

You don't need the ground lug, ground is provided through the ground tabs on the temp and pressure gauges through the mounting screws to the case.

The silver button comes off easily if you drill the back swedge off. A little epoxy and it's as good as new.

Great idea to make the button hole optional, I have a 74 and painted it black.

Posted by: horizontally-opposed Oct 6 2004, 12:08 PM

Count me in for another kit, as well. This is something to have on the shelf for whenever I have the money to build the Type IV I've always wanted.

And that will be...

pete

Posted by: cgnj Oct 6 2004, 05:33 PM

Thats the answer.

Carlos

Posted by: 914forme Oct 6 2004, 06:03 PM

That is exactly how I designed the orginal ones, when I sent them off to the coast, they decieded they wanted the orginal setup. But if every body likes the idea of slightly smaller dia. Then That is what I will do again, and go with my orginal plans. Glad to see somebody else thought of that one and went for it.

Finishing up the designs will be sending out for final quotes, let every one know once I get it all nailed down.

Thanks for all the great ideas, and confirmation that mine work also.

Take care, Stephen

Posted by: Steve Oct 6 2004, 06:29 PM

I bought mine from AA.

BTW I will also take one.
I need to look at my car and see if it has silver buttons.
Its a 75 I think everything is black buttons.

Posted by: froggie Oct 7 2004, 03:36 PM

Me too! I want one!

Posted by: a914luvr Oct 7 2004, 10:54 PM

I'll take one

Posted by: ynotdd Oct 12 2004, 02:57 PM

whats up with the gauge kit is it still going into production?

Posted by: Root_Werks Oct 12 2004, 03:06 PM

If it is like last time, it will take Stephen a while to put things together. But he is a good guy and will let us know the status on things.

I want one.

I was going to go with a Getti dash, but now I will send my 914 dash to Dr. Evil, build this gauge and life will be grand!

Posted by: dinomium Oct 12 2004, 03:13 PM

yah what he said! right after I paint and put mine back together... some time.....

Posted by: Root_Werks Oct 12 2004, 03:16 PM

Well hurry up will yah!

Posted by: anderssj Oct 12 2004, 07:01 PM

Count me in too (if I'm not too late) . . . hole for silver button, please.

Best!

Steve A-

Posted by: dinomium Oct 25 2004, 04:55 PM

so what was the vertic?

Posted by: Aaron Cox Oct 25 2004, 05:01 PM

you mean the "verdict"

Posted by: dinomium Oct 25 2004, 05:07 PM

me amboo dogface to the bananna patch?

Posted by: 914forme Oct 25 2004, 07:22 PM

Still gathering prices, got one last call and a couple of e-mails I am waiting on, then I will make the decision if I want to go at this again. But from what I have so far it is looking like a go for a good fall project. But I won't nail a time line yet and have to eat crow for it latter. I hate crow!

Posted by: agrump Jan 25 2005, 11:25 AM

I'm not sure if this is dead or not but I would be in for one with the silver button.

Posted by: Root_Werks Jan 25 2005, 11:41 AM

Aaaaaaaaaaaaron, when you guys are ready, so is my check book.

Non silver button if there will be a choice.

Posted by: propricer Jan 25 2005, 11:59 AM

Count me in for at least 1 V8 version - if such an animal is planned !

Posted by: ynotdd Jan 25 2005, 12:14 PM

were do i send a check! want a silver button one asap !!!

Posted by: Dr Evil Jan 25 2005, 01:21 PM

I want one toooo (with button if that matters).

Posted by: azbill Jan 25 2005, 01:25 PM

Please add me to the list with a silver button. Thank you

Azbill

Posted by: bondo Jan 25 2005, 01:28 PM

I had previously stated I wanted one.. but now I'm contemplating a getty dash... I just can't stop! Anyways, if that is the case I won't be needing one as I'll have 5 guage holes to fill. If I do go with the getty dash, Dr Evil can take the one set aside for me (if one has been set aside).

Posted by: scotty b Jan 25 2005, 01:54 PM

I'm in for a silver butt if it's not too late! Still under$100

Posted by: trekkor Jan 25 2005, 04:49 PM

I'm interested, too.

KT

Posted by: jwalters Jan 25 2005, 05:33 PM

Count me in!

Posted by: scottb Jan 25 2005, 06:39 PM

i will take one when they come available....

add me to whatever mailing list may exist.

Posted by: Eric_Shea Jan 25 2005, 07:04 PM

Put me down for a silver button.

Posted by: Justin Fischer Jan 26 2005, 08:38 AM

Put me down for a silver button as well

Posted by: Root_Werks Jan 26 2005, 09:06 AM

QUOTE (Aaron Cox @ Jan 25 2005, 10:40 AM)

okay okay. they are in production. look for them in the next month or 2 patience grasshopper.

I would like to pick up a couple of kits

Posted by: double-a Jan 26 2005, 09:35 AM

i'm in for one or two.

~a

Posted by: JOHNMAN Jan 27 2005, 04:43 PM

For anyone interested, I would be willing to assemble these kits once they become available for a small fee or trade for parts.

PM or Email me for details.

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 27 2005, 04:47 PM

QUOTE (JOHNMAN @ Jan 27 2005, 03:43 PM)

For anyone interested, I would be willing to assemble these kits once they become available for a small fee or trade for parts. PM or Email me for details.

so was I ....


But.... i think its better to source new bezels..... its a major PITA

Posted by: JOHNMAN Jan 27 2005, 05:07 PM

QUOTE

But.... i think its better to source new bezels..... its a major PITA

I know that.

That is why I am offering. It is a major PITA even with new bezels if you don't have VDO's crimper to crimp them (or something similar).

I was guessing more would be interested in them if someone offered to do the work for them.

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 27 2005, 05:11 PM

QUOTE (JOHNMAN @ Jan 27 2005, 04:07 PM)

QUOTE But.... i think its better to source new bezels..... its a major PITA I know that. That is why I am offering. It is a major PITA even with new bezels if you don't have VDO's crimper to crimp them (or something similar). I was guessing more would be interested in them if someone offered to do the work for them.

thats cool. youre welcome to assemble all of them.

Posted by: KaptKaos Jan 27 2005, 07:15 PM

I'd be in for a silver button model. Let me know.

Thanks,
Joe

Posted by: RD Evans Jan 27 2005, 07:24 PM

Add me to the list!

Posted by: MattR Jan 27 2005, 07:51 PM

Im in for one or two!

Posted by: ChrisReale Jan 27 2005, 08:07 PM

I guess I'll jump aboard as well I'll take one, prefer silver button...

Posted by: bd1308 Jan 27 2005, 08:19 PM

call me nieve, but what are we talking about? I've seen the 904 guage, but would this be able to use the 914 guage parts? or would i have to buy 911 ones?

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 27 2005, 08:30 PM

see my avatar to the left. it is a kit that utilizes the stock 914 gauge housing. it uses 911 gauge inserts and a 914 fuel gauge insert.

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 27 2005, 08:31 PM

here


Attached image(s)

Posted by: bd1308 Jan 27 2005, 08:34 PM

so....what am i thinking i dont even have a whole working car

Posted by: Gint Jan 27 2005, 09:34 PM

Hey what the hell. If it's not too late, put me down for one with a silver button please.

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 27 2005, 09:35 PM

the current decision is how many to make in the run..... 50? 75? can i sell 50? who knows

Posted by: plas76targa Jan 27 2005, 11:08 PM

Aaron - count me in too! I'd like the "silver" button gauge face as well.

Thanks,

Posted by: dinomium Jan 28 2005, 12:29 AM

gimmie!!
I still want at least one!!!

Posted by: Carrera916 Jan 28 2005, 12:37 AM

Hey Aaron,

how many asked for it so far? How about start taking real orders with moola and get it going? I'm dying to get one (maybe two) in my hands now!!!

Let's do it!!

Posted by: agrump Jan 28 2005, 06:49 AM

Will there be a overlay for the temp and pressure gauge so that they look correct when mounted?

Posted by: scotty b Feb 11 2005, 08:39 PM

Had to bring it back to the forfront!

Posted by: type47fan Feb 11 2005, 11:32 PM

Which thread is real?

Posted by: scotty b Feb 12 2005, 07:58 AM

Thread,what do you mean thread? There is no thread It's all in your head there is no such thing as a 904 gauge kit, you've been having a fantastic voyage on the dream bus I guess the other is the real one now!

Posted by: scottb Mar 13 2005, 08:47 AM

bump.....

got my 911 donor gauge.....

Posted by: scottb Sep 19 2005, 05:59 PM

this gonna happen?


just a bump to see...............

Posted by: Aaron Cox Sep 19 2005, 06:26 PM

it in dan roots hands now....

Posted by: markb Oct 12 2005, 04:36 PM

Posted by: scottb Nov 8 2005, 06:58 PM

any news?

Posted by: lagunero Nov 8 2005, 07:04 PM

I would say a "little bird" told me but that would be really stretching it, so I'll just say that they are very close to fruition.

Posted by: azbill Nov 8 2005, 08:27 PM

I'm in, need one with the silver button. Where and when do I send the money.


Dr. Evel assembled the one I have now. He the man.

Posted by: RON S. Nov 9 2005, 08:23 AM

In the for what it's worth dept.


I also put a kit together from one of the old Pelican units.

I was put off by the price of $150.00 ea.So it didn't happen for me until i saw a kit pop up on e-bay.

I called Pelican,and they were unloading all the units they had for $75.00ea. shipped.The guy told me they were happy to be done with them cause they were really a non-seller at the $150.00 price,and the guy said really lost a lot of money over those kits.Thats when I grabbed one.
If you can get a kit price under $100.00 you should be ok but I think it'll be tough to do it and make some profit.You'll probably have to sell only one kind of faceplate and let the customer go there own way on wether or not to mount a center button.2 different kits means 2 different setups on the f.pl's and probably more up front cost.

On the buttons,I bought a wore out early 911 gauge and cannibalized it for the button.

Lastly,the PP unit said in its instructiions to glue on the bulb holders on the back plate.This totally sucked.They would continue to break off no matter what epoxy was used.I finally had my bulb holders Tig'd on,and haven't had one fall off since.Problem solved.


Good luck,as I know a lotta people love the look,it's just the buck they gotta fork over to have that look.


Ron

Posted by: davec Nov 9 2005, 09:39 AM

If they are still available, I would like a kit with the silver button as well!

Posted by: bmcwilli Nov 9 2005, 12:26 PM

1 in silver button mode, please!

Posted by: rudedude Nov 9 2005, 03:18 PM

i would like one with silver button please. thanks!

Posted by: 0396 Nov 9 2005, 04:54 PM

At $100.00 each, count be in for two with drilled hole for silver button.
Please keep us posted.

Posted by: scottb Dec 9 2005, 07:01 PM

time for a bump to go along with the bezel kits.....

Posted by: scottb Jan 20 2006, 06:55 PM

bump-a-dity...............


someday.......

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 20 2006, 06:58 PM

its in process..... taking shape....

Posted by: SirAndy Jan 20 2006, 07:11 PM

QUOTE (Aaron Cox @ Jan 20 2006, 04:58 PM)

its in process..... taking shape....

still working your photoshop skillz ???

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 20 2006, 07:12 PM

Posted by: dinomium Jan 20 2006, 09:18 PM

I just cant hope anymore
I hope you are happy Arron!

Posted by: craig downs Jan 20 2006, 09:20 PM

Are any of these gauges or kits still available I hope? I would love to have one.

Posted by: dinomium Jan 20 2006, 09:24 PM

Hi craig, we ALL have been waiting, since oct of 2004~

Posted by: craig downs Jan 20 2006, 11:46 PM

Umm bummer I guess will just have to wait, watch and hope
Anyway thanks for letting me know

Posted by: markb Jan 21 2006, 01:40 AM

QUOTE (dinomium @ Jan 20 2006, 07:24 PM)

Hi craig, we ALL have been waiting, since oct of 2004~

and waiting.....and waiting....and waiting......

Posted by: craig downs Jan 21 2006, 02:10 AM

I 1st saw this thread tonight and seening the Oct. 2004 date I thought I missed out but I guess it has'nt happened yet. It looks like alot of intrest.
If and when they come available I hope they have alot of them

Posted by: df2931 Jan 21 2006, 03:11 AM

I want!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: bd1308 Jan 21 2006, 01:18 PM

me too...

b

Posted by: LouisCypher Jan 21 2006, 02:04 PM

If it is possible to send the kit to Germany, I would like a couple of them!

Cheers,

Louis

Posted by: anthony Jan 21 2006, 03:14 PM

How much to just buy one from Palo Alto Speedometer or North Hollywood Speedometer??

http://www.paspeedo.com/porsche914combi.htm

http://www.nhspeedometer.com/914/1.htm

Posted by: alpha434 Jan 21 2006, 03:42 PM

uh oh.....

Posted by: shadygrady Jan 21 2006, 03:49 PM

count me in

grady

Posted by: dinomium Jan 21 2006, 03:49 PM

QUOTE (anthony @ Jan 21 2006, 02:14 PM)

How much to just buy one from Palo Alto Speedometer or North Hollywood Speedometer?? http://www.paspeedo.com/porsche914combi.htm http://www.nhspeedometer.com/914/1.htm

BRING MONEY!!
IMHO too much $$$ for a gauge I can really read with my MOMO wheel!!

Posted by: STL914 Jan 21 2006, 04:01 PM

QUOTE (anthony @ Jan 21 2006, 01:14 PM)

How much to just buy one from Palo Alto Speedometer or North Hollywood Speedometer?? http://www.paspeedo.com/porsche914combi.htm http://www.nhspeedometer.com/914/1.htm

Am I missing something? I don't see any prices listed on their web site.

Posted by: anthony Jan 21 2006, 04:04 PM

How much is too much? When you factor in the cost of the kit (Pelican charged $150 and lost their asses), the cost of a 911 gauge, the cost of a 914 gauge, and the PITA factor buying one premade starts to look like a good option.

QUOTE

IMHO too much $$$ for a gauge I can really read with my MOMO wheel!!

I think that even the kit is a lot of effort for little payoff. It's pretty easy to find a place to add a VDO oil pressure gauge.

Posted by: craig downs Jan 21 2006, 04:08 PM

QUOTE (anthony @ Jan 21 2006, 01:14 PM)

How much to just buy one from Palo Alto Speedometer or North Hollywood Speedometer??

North Hollywood offered one on ebay about two months ago for 5or 6 hundered

Posted by: dinomium Jan 21 2006, 10:53 PM

I think 500 is too much for me to spend. I have no problem with the price, or somebody needing to get paid...
I could find alot of stuff for 5 bills... thats all I am saying... The hollywood units have the correct lettering angles as well, it is a HIGH quality item and they do good work...
I think I will fall over backwards if I backpedal any further!

Posted by: craig downs Jan 22 2006, 01:49 AM

I agree When I saw it on ebay I was dooling but I could'nt bring my self to send that much for a gauge.

Posted by: alpha434 Jan 22 2006, 02:14 AM

just hang on for a while guys. 600 bucks is just a little insane.

Posted by: pnewman Jan 30 2006, 12:30 AM

I was considering changing the lenses and faces from my 74 teener 1.8 last year and getting silver or white faces to match the car (silver) and North Hollywood quoted me like 700 - 1000 depending on lenses etc.

and for giggles I contacted I think it was Mid america or whomever put a photo of the 914 advertisement for gauge trim rings in it.... the gauges had white or silver faces and I started calling around. the company wanted a 400+ mark up over North Hollywood!

I wouldn't mind paying 1-200 for good faces and assembling myself.

Posted by: alpha434 Jan 30 2006, 12:57 AM

1-200 huh?

hmmmmmmm......

Uh oh.

Posted by: kwales Jan 30 2006, 08:32 AM

Customer assistance in Aisle 3....

That's Customer assistance in AISLE 3....

AAaaaaaaaaaaRon....... Are you there?


Kenny get a job soon, Kenny want one....



Ken

Posted by: Aaron Cox Jan 30 2006, 09:51 AM

alpha has machining/silkscreening hookups and is taking over this project, with him doing it, theyll actually get done

From 914forme to aaron to root to aaron to alpha.....

he has all the info, and is gonna make them happen

Posted by: Root_Werks Jan 30 2006, 10:59 AM

A lot of things changed for me last year. But I hope the gauges do get done. I am sure I would be in for probably a few kits.

Posted by: alpha434 Jan 30 2006, 11:01 AM

Well wait. I'm just crunching numbers. No promises yet.


I need to find a better silkscreener than the one I've got. I might even have to ship them out, since the denver area doesn't cater very well to those shops.

I think that was the block that was on the last project.

Aaron can feel free to erase his last post. I don't need everybody asking me for one yet.

Posted by: dinomium Jan 30 2006, 11:03 AM

QUOTE (alpha434 @ Jan 30 2006, 10:01 AM)

Well wait. I'm just crunching numbers. No promises yet. I need to find a better silkscreener than the one I've got. I might even have to ship them out, since the denver area doesn't cater very well to those shops. I think that was the block that was on the last project. Aaron can feel free to erase his last post. I don't need everybody asking me for one yet.

I will take TWO then!
HA!
Tag yer it!

Posted by: alpha434 Jan 30 2006, 11:41 AM

Drek! I shouldn'tve said anything.

OK, then.

How much will you pay???

Posted by: r_towle Jan 30 2006, 12:40 PM

what do you need a silk screener for?

I may be able to find one around here...I just need to know what I am asking for...

Rich

Posted by: alpha434 Jan 30 2006, 12:44 PM

to print the little po'dunk labels on the faceplate.

Oil temp, Oil pressure, and Fuel. And The brake symbol. And a few other little spots. If you ask around, It's one color, one setup.

It's mostly a time consuming process.

Maybe I should just have little stickers made in case someone wants dual head temp or something exotic.

Posted by: r_towle Jan 30 2006, 02:12 PM

hell yah, stickers are fine.

The cost of setup for that would be pretty high, considering you need to mount the faceplate in the silk screen system.

I would say stickers...

Gotta get the font correct, and it will look great.

The other part, getting the face plate pressed...do you have a source for that, or is that a common part that is still available?

Rich

Posted by: Eric_Shea Jan 30 2006, 03:24 PM

Remember... these stickers would be in gauges, that are in cars, that are in the sun. Inside temps can exceed 120-130. Gots to be good stickers.

Posted by: ynotdd Jan 30 2006, 04:35 PM

add me in for one!! again!

Posted by: alpha434 Jan 30 2006, 05:42 PM

Well see... Stickers are of much lower quality then silkscreen printing. And probly only just a little cheaper. BUT it'll give the buyers articulation to have whatever gauges they want installed wherever they want them.

This is a hard choice because I'm torn between manufacturing the highest quality part that I can and making the most versatile part that I can. I'm going to put in dual head temps on one. And someone else I know wants a boost gauge on one side.

Tough. I'll have to look into the quality of the stickers that I have made. And I think I'll just include 3 with the kit whatever people want.

Posted by: scottb Mar 5 2006, 01:40 PM

time for the ol'




shit, what is entailed? really? i need a hobby, maybe i will do this if i can get some folks to help with direction.

why do i have a sense of dread while typing this?

=======

Posted by: bd1308 Mar 5 2006, 04:17 PM

alpha, just silkscreen the guages. have several options, or sell blanks and people can dick with it on thier own.

b

Posted by: Aaron Cox Mar 5 2006, 04:18 PM

dont be a prick.

Posted by: JOHNMAN Mar 5 2006, 05:18 PM

QUOTE

alpha, just silkscreen the guages. have several options, or sell blanks and people can dick with it on thier own. b

Is this thing happening?

I'm at a point where I am about to assemble my last kit.....

I could get my own silksrceened.

Posted by: scottb Mar 5 2006, 06:21 PM

QUOTE (Aaron Cox @ Mar 5 2006, 05:18 PM)

dont be a prick.

me?

not trying to be a happy unit, just thinking of picking up the reins.... unless of course someone else has this horse....

cheers...

Posted by: alpha434 Mar 5 2006, 06:31 PM

What's up?

Posted by: markb Mar 5 2006, 06:31 PM

I really do hope this happens. I've been waiting a long time for someone to come up with these.

Posted by: alpha434 Mar 5 2006, 06:33 PM

I like the selling blanks option. I've already got a few lying around. I'm in line waiting to get into the best silkscreen shop in town. And have been for just over a month. I guess I'm "low priority." Probly another youth thing...

Posted by: Aaron Cox Mar 5 2006, 07:36 PM

stick with it amigo

Posted by: JOHNMAN Mar 5 2006, 08:45 PM

QUOTE

I like the selling blanks option. I've already got a few lying around. I'm in line waiting to get into the best silkscreen shop in town.

Do it!

I'd be in for 1 or 2 blanks Backplate and front face...

(no center buttons please I can drill that hole myself)

I would also suggest one change in the backplate. ----> 4 relocated/additional holes to allow later model fuel gauges.

I'm making my last kit this way and it is a matter of adding 4 holes and filling 2 slots. This mod makes for NO SOLDERING INVOLVED and you don't have to deal with those two crimped spade terminals breaking off when removing/installing them.

Just a suggestion.

Either way, I want 1 or 2.

Posted by: boxstr Mar 5 2006, 11:07 PM

The company I use for fabrication has an in house slikscreen facility. If you want to send me a face blank I will ask them cost of the gauge face and silkscreening.
Craig C. Laughlin

Posted by: alpha434 Mar 6 2006, 12:51 AM

QUOTE (JOHNMAN @ Mar 5 2006, 06:45 PM)

QUOTE I like the selling blanks option. I've already got a few lying around. I'm in line waiting to get into the best silkscreen shop in town. Do it! I'd be in for 1 or 2 blanks Backplate and front face... (no center buttons please I can drill that hole myself) I would also suggest one change in the backplate. ----> 4 relocated/additional holes to allow later model fuel gauges. I'm making my last kit this way and it is a matter of adding 4 holes and filling 2 slots. This mod makes for NO SOLDERING INVOLVED and you don't have to deal with those two crimped spade terminals breaking off when removing/installing them. Just a suggestion. Either way, I want 1 or 2.

No shit?!?

If you want to see that feature, then you'd better get me some specs on it. I think we may be locked in on the specs for the first 25. But we can make some adjustments for the next run.

And there are a lot of silk screeners around here. I'm working on getting my own setup for this. None of the shops charge anything near a reasonable rate. Makes it impossible to sell these for a reasonable rate. And etc.

Posted by: JOHNMAN Mar 6 2006, 12:59 AM

This is what I was trying to describe in my last post

Posted by: alpha434 Mar 6 2006, 01:06 AM

I'll see what I can do.

Posted by: rktmn247 Mar 6 2006, 02:36 AM

I know nothing about this topic other than I think these guages look great. Is silk screening the only way to go with this? It seems to me with the advancements in printing technology and home pc solutions something else might work. Not saying inkjet would be the answer, but my printer at home will print directly onto cd and dvd discs so it has me wondering what other creative solutions might be out there.

Posted by: lotus_65 Mar 6 2006, 05:39 AM

i was going to try rub-on transfer lettering. http://www.letraset.com/us/info/products/Transfers-Getting-transferred.asp
i was going to live without the generator and battery graphics, but it looks like they'll do a custom layup, step and repeat it and send sheets out for a fee.
you want me to find out how much?

Posted by: 0396 Mar 6 2006, 08:37 AM

Thanks for carrying the cause.
As mention before -I'll take one or two

Posted by: smdubovsky Mar 6 2006, 09:07 AM

Late to the party, but I'll take one (w/ silver center) when they are avail. I think silkscreen would look MUCH nicer than stickers.

Thanks for doing this!
SMD

Posted by: alpha434 Mar 6 2006, 10:37 AM

QUOTE (lotus_65 @ Mar 6 2006, 03:39 AM)

i was going to try rub-on transfer lettering. http://www.letraset.com/us/info/products/Transfers-Getting-transferred.asp i was going to live without the generator and battery graphics, but it looks like they'll do a custom layup, step and repeat it and send sheets out for a fee. you want me to find out how much?

The lettering has to be able to withstand fairly high temperatures. And I don't know about using a printer... Maybe we should try that.

Posted by: lotus_65 Mar 6 2006, 11:13 AM

i shot them an e-mail earlier. i'll ask about stability if they answer. i think they use a silkscreen process to make the transfers, so it would be actual ink (and presumably could have additives for uv and heat stability), as opposed to inket which is engineered for paper.

Posted by: JOHNMAN Mar 10 2006, 03:42 PM

The big problem is printing white on black. No printer that I know of does this well.

That is why ink/paint with silkscreen is used.

I can do these for $75.00/kit as blanks. Faces would have no hole for the silver dot, but you can add that.
The faces can be provided satin black or bare.

Lead time is approx 2 weeks to ship if there is interest.

I could do a flat rate shipping, but need to find out how much that will run.

I can accept paypal.

I am looking into screen printers as well, but this will add to the cost if it is desired,

Posted by: JOHNMAN Mar 10 2006, 05:29 PM

I checked Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope and the price is $4.05 anywhere in the US.

So including Paypal Fees the total price for a blank kit shipped is $81.72.

I would need a minimum of 5 orders to start this deal out.

I am accepting pre-pays at this time.

I'm still working on the screening....

Posted by: craig downs Mar 10 2006, 08:42 PM

I'm in paypal sent

Posted by: Aaron Cox Mar 10 2006, 08:54 PM

so alpha passed the torch?


either way - glad to see it gettin done

Posted by: JOHNMAN Mar 10 2006, 08:59 PM

Thanks Craig.

Aaron,

I'm just plain tired of waiting.

I'm doing a run. 4 to go for the first run.

PM me for my paypal address.

Posted by: markb Mar 10 2006, 10:20 PM

Paypal sent.

Posted by: alpha434 Mar 10 2006, 10:36 PM

Someone went over MY head?!?!

Jesus H Christ!!!

Posted by: Aaron Cox Mar 10 2006, 10:41 PM

thats not cool.

alpha is already funding his operation....... and then someone goes above him?

Posted by: alpha434 Mar 10 2006, 10:56 PM

QUOTE (Aaron Cox @ Mar 10 2006, 08:41 PM)

thats not cool. alpha is already funding his operation....... and then someone goes above him?

He's getting ripped on the price for just blanks. Powdercoating isn't too expensive. It's going to be the silkscreening that will make these parts of any quality whatsoever.

And nobody should have to be paypaling him in advance. It's customary for metalworking shops to give 30 days for due bills. This is so that companies can make a return on product before having to pay the manufacturers.

Be advised.

Posted by: markb Mar 11 2006, 01:21 AM

QUOTE (alpha434 @ Mar 10 2006, 08:56 PM)

QUOTE (Aaron Cox @ Mar 10 2006, 08:41 PM) thats not cool. alpha is already funding his operation....... and then someone goes above him? He's getting ripped on the price for just blanks. Powdercoating isn't too expensive. It's going to be the silkscreening that will make these parts of any quality whatsoever. And nobody should have to be paypaling him in advance. It's customary for metalworking shops to give 30 days for due bills. This is so that companies can make a return on product before having to pay the manufacturers. Be advised.

Sorry if we pissed you guys off, but you've been talking about this for a LONG time with no results. If I can get even a blank faced kit, I'll take it.

Posted by: JOHNMAN Mar 11 2006, 02:45 AM

I agree.

There are many who have waited for a very long time for these to be available.

There have been several "attempts".

I'm making them available.

It's just that simple.

If you want to make these kits, then DO IT.

I'm having a run of them made and they will ship in 2 weeks, and I'm taking orders NOW!

If I can figure out a way to have the silkscreening done (that looks better than the last kits I saw) then they will be done that way as well, but for now I'm selling them as blanks.

Anyone interested, please let me know.

Posted by: scotty b Mar 11 2006, 07:20 AM

Whoever gets it done, nice quality,WITH the silkscreening, gets my money. Alpha I wish you the best and hopefully you will get it done. I'm sticking with you for now because I know all the werk that has gone into this original project and you seem to be trying to get the silkscreening figured out.

Posted by: scotty b Mar 11 2006, 07:28 AM

Question. Why not have a stencil made of the various markings and airbrush them onto the faces instead of this silklscreening debacle? Silkscreening has been the problem all along and paint should hold up just fine in the gauge, and if desired could be coverd with a satin clear coat for additional protection.

Posted by: scotty b Mar 12 2006, 09:58 AM

QUOTE (scotty b @ Mar 11 2006, 05:28 AM)

Question. Why not have a stencil made of the various markings and airbrush them onto the faces instead of this silklscreening debacle? Silkscreening has been the problem all along and paint should hold up just fine in the gauge, and if desired could be coverd with a satin clear coat for additional protection.

Wouldn't this be easier, cheaper, fastre and just as effective? Only thing would be making the stencil, but I would think alf...... errr alpha could write a CNC program to make a nice accurate on from plastic or a high tech one from Ti.

Posted by: bmunday Mar 12 2006, 10:02 AM

Is the process of silk screening on these different then on that of a shirt?
If it's the same, I can get it done.. My neighbor is a graphic artist, and has a guy that can get a real good price. I would just need the art work, and I can send it over to him for a quote.

Posted by: bmunday Mar 17 2006, 02:49 PM

finally got a hold of the silk screener. He has the info, and is working a quote. He said not a problem, he can do em he just needs different ink. He is working on the price, but will be working a deal. I bought his friggin house 5 years ago, I hope would work a deal.
Alpha drop me a line so we can work out the shipping...

Posted by: lotus_65 Mar 17 2006, 03:21 PM

let me know if you guys need art.

Posted by: jsteele22 Mar 17 2006, 04:52 PM

Just stumbled into this thread. I've been thinking about custom gauge faces as one of the finishing touches to a Subie swap, but being still in the very early stages, haven't pursued it much. One idea I had was going to a place like http://www.frontpanelexpress.com/home/index.htm. They're oriented towards making front panels for electronic modules, but their capabilities seem pretty generically applicable to making custom gauges.

You download a free Windows application that lets you design a panel, click to get a quote, and order as many (or as few !!!) panels as you want. Prices given for the examples on their website seem pretty reasonable. One of the nice features of the design software is the ability to import HPGL files for drawing/engraving arbitrary text/art on the panel. They offer lots of colors (including black) with several colors of silkscreen (including white, orange). And the text is actually engraved into the panel. One drawback is that the panel material seems to be colored first, and then cut out, so the top surface would be black, and the edge of any cutouts would be raw aluminum.

Anyway, I don't think this is the way to get an exact match to the original, but it seems like it might be a cool way to make a custom modern gauge(coolant temp, rich/lean, ...) that fits in with the original panel styling.

Posted by: LouisCypher May 3 2006, 08:47 AM

Is there any update on the kits? Are they being made or already available?

Cheers,

Louis