DRC

Working on a friends 58, speedo not fitting that great, all the original pieces.

If I snug the speedo top to top of clamshell the two bottom screw holes don't reach the gauge pod holes, if I screw the bottom 2 screws into the gauge pod then the speedo top has a gap to the top of the clamshell.

So, is there a secret, does the speedo snap into or just on the clamshell surface, etc.? Or is it just "it's a 58 Chevy!" and that's about as well as it fits?

Thanks.

5869vette

Yes it`s true it`s a `58 chevy and some fits better than others.
Sounds like the alum. casting on his is warped.
Post some pics so we can get a better idea of the fit.

Tony

Pilot Dan

You have to put the 2 lower screws in first loosely and work with the top third mounting point to get the best fit you can (shim, or slightly bend tab on the top possibly) . Don't force anything, the pod housing is easily damaged. Pilot Dan

DRC

Thanks. I did try two bottom loose and I have a gap between the clamshell top and the speedo top. The bottom of the pod does line up fairly well with the lower gauge housing surface. Is it just that there is going to be a gap up top?

One thought was to loosen the nuts holding the lower gauge housing to the clamshell and push the lower housing up a little to shorten the opening where the speedo goes. Although that lower housing top does line up nicely with the bottom of the clamshell, don't want to mess that up.

Seems the overall opening with both housings bolted together is slightly taller than the speedo pod.

Pilot Dan

It would be much easier to assist you if you could post a picture of the problem. In short, the speedo bezel (chrome) must be centered in the top housing. That is what you have to work towards, or figure out why it is not lining up. If the top tab on the speedo case is bent (which can happen), it can be tweaked to get the bezel square.

DRC

Sorry pics not posting. Appreciate the help. One question if you don't mind. Does the speedo pod chrome bezel lay on the clamshell surface or does it go into the groove, pod top sort of snap into that groove?

I do understand if the answer is at best it does not fit perfect into the clamshell.

Pilot Dan

The way I install it is to have the clamshell upside down on a soft protected surface and manipulate the speedo pod starting with the top first and then the bottom while trying to achieve a uniform alignment all the way around. Hold it exactly where you want it, and then tighten the screws and top nut evenly making sure it holds it's position.
PM me if you need some help, I am close bye and take Scenic Drive lots of times when I am out with the cars and could take a look at it if you like.

DRC

Thanks, will give it a try again. I have the clamshell and lower gauge pod installed in dash. Speedo I could swear was lined up fairly well but now that I am securing all tight it just seems off.

Am I correct that a 1958 Corvette has about 12,000 pieces?!

Jersey Shore?, just saw that, scenic drives? Meaning Windmill Hot Dog stand? Yum!

Pilot Dan

Scenic Drive is that winding, hilly road with the S turns that faces the water near where you live. Great views of NYC and the Harbor. It's a good test for suspension and brakes as well.

DRC

Oh yea. That's a good run for Vettes and Harleys. It's actually called the Dragon's Toe I think, a small version of the Dragon in N.C.