Making custom gauge faces? Options

[falcor75]

I've got an old Saab VDO fuel gauge that I'd like to change the gauge face to a more Porsche looking face. Any ideas on how to make your own gauge face that doesnt look like crap after being exposed to sunlight etc?

[burton73]

This will work for someone.

I have been in the plastics Biz for 43 years. In that time we have embedded artwork in Lucite and Polyester materials. We have used different techniques over the years to achieve the look of inserts from Silk Screen printing to inkjet printing on different substrates. One of the best looks is a high-end ink jet printing on white gloss film made by Epson. One of the problems is Epson does not make this material any more so when I need it I buy it on the secondary market. It is all over the world. Easy to set up the artwork and then print out on this film and then cut it out. I have a high temperature double stick film that I put on my inserts that I make for my Patented Color Changing Thermometers.
I want nothing to do with making these films for gauges but it is very easy too do.

Today a low cost inkjet printer will do the job. I hate inkjets as they clog if not used all the time and you have to dick with them to get a clean print but when they are working well they are super clear. Sorry That I do not have a sample of how it looks because by printer is banding right now and I have spent to much time today trying to get it to print clear, I am getting married this weekend and I have lots to do.

This can look really good for this use. The inkjet ink bonds to the plastic sheet and will not flake off. It is hard to scratch as well


Bob B


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