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Post by joef2002 on Oct 17, 2009 20:27:53 GMT -5
Hey gang,
Though it's a long way off until I attempt this, I'm already thinking about (what looks like) a massive undertaking with the KR dash. I was hoping some of you guys who've done this can help me better understand a few things about them:
a) Aside from the TV screens; what are the major differences between the two available dashes? Is there any one you'd recommend? (keeping in mind I want to make many of the buttons 'functional')
b) How difficult are these things to install? Will this require me to tear apart my entire existing dash (digital dash on 88 Trans)?
c) How about connecting this like the speedometer, fuel/temp guages, etc? How difficult is that (and is it even possible)?
d) If done properly of course, how SAFE are they? Seems like a lot of wiring and lot of juice running through these? Do they kill the car battery? Do they get really hot?
Your insights would be GREATLY appreciated gang. THANKS AGAIN!
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Post by rafael on Oct 18, 2009 5:35:30 GMT -5
Of course the 4th season dash is MUCH better than the 2 TV Dash (Ok, I may be a BIT biased, I have a 4th season one:) ) Anyways, I have a car computer, so the bigger monitor will be usable... I prefer the "cleaned up" look of the 4th season and the newer type of leds... As for "power" LED's do not take much power... You could say that the dash itself doesn't need more than about 5 amps of power to run.... There are a lot of wires to connect, but many of these are not full power wires... and when done correctly (as with any electrical hookups), it will be safe... I don't ever recall of any stories of any dashes / cars / people burning down... Raf
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KittCARR
Full Member
"G.T.A Knights"
Posts: 134
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Post by KittCARR on Oct 18, 2009 10:46:25 GMT -5
Welcome joef2002
First off, you have to ask yourself which dash do you see yourself behind? For me, it has always been the 3/4 dash, or one tv. I've always loved the simplicity of this style dash. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love the 2 tv, but I knew I wouldn't be as happy behind one of those.
People don't understand the dash has many components to it. Like Raf said, if you don't want to do the work yourself, you can purchase a completed dash from a few vendors. Either way you choose, will be expensive.....you can't avoid that.
Things you'll need to complete the dash are:
- the actual fiberglass dash ( anywhere from $550-$1000) - dash electronics ($1400-$1700, depending on options) - electronics overlays (approx $250-$350, depending on material and options) - Tv frame (approx $85, although some complete dashes come with them) - countdown bar (I don't think anyone is making these separately anymore) -voice box insert (approx $150-$200 depending on which one. I think Brenon and Billy are the only ones making these right now.) - tv monitors (I really don't know the cost as I haven't purchased one yet).
Remember, everything listed above is for the dash only, and does not include the gullwing steering wheel, pod and the pod electronics, overhead and lower console, and the electronics that go in those.
I know it sounds like a long list, and it is, but just focus one one part at time, and you'll get there eventually. We all make mistakes, we all end up buying parts more than once. Do yourself a favour, and save your dimes and nickels for quality parts, not cheap ebay knock offs. I don't care how good they look in their auction, you will be disappointed.
Heck, I started my project in 2004, and I'm still not finished, and probably won't be for a couple more years.
Just ask around for a trusted vendor....that's why we're all here.
As far as installation goes, it really isn't that hard of a job. You will need to remove your dash pad, and you'll have to pull your gauges out. Many leave the speedo ( I think for legal purposes).
A wire is run from each gauge, to it's corresponding digital gauge. If your car is 82-84 (maybe later years as well), you'll need a sending unit to convert your analog signal, to a digital one for the speedo.
You may have to cut away some of the stock dash plastic to make room for the electronics.
As for them drawing too much power, if you're running your dash all day, with your scanner going, you will need to run the car every so often to recharge the battery.
To be on the safe side, you can upgrade your alternator to a 100 amp, like I did (if you'd like), but for regular driving, the factory alternator should be more than sufficient.
Joey.
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Post by joef2002 on Oct 18, 2009 20:39:45 GMT -5
Wow this is awesome stuff. I did realize the expenses involved, and do understand that this may take a LONG time to complete. But I'm determined...and god willing...I'm going to finish it. The way you guys describe it, this doesn't SOUND as complicated as I thought it might be. I was afraid I'd have to pull apart my ENTIRE dash down to just the bare wires. But it sonds like the majority of it will remain as is...just covered up.
Thanks again guys. When the time is near, I'll definitely reach out again.
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