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Has anyone seen a custom bezel that will fit for a modern Nav stereo system? Obviously you would lose a few gauges, but I was wondering what it would look like.
I was wondering the same thing. I was thinking instead about extending the stereo face toward the shifter somehow, either at an angle, or picking the top corner up a bit. Haven't worked through it, yet. But I care less about the fiber-optics than I do about the gauges.
Another thought would be to 'consolidate' the gauges into a custom modern display instead of individual faces. That would give you some room.
Or just install a "single DIN" unit and have the screen block the gauges when in use. A little cheezy, but easier.
I assume you're talking about a double dim navi/dvd/cd unit? I've seen a few custom dashes (or atleast the center pieces) around the forum. I would never ditch my gauges though. Have you considered one of the screens that slides in/out and when in it looks like a single din? You could also mount in glove box if you're just wanting a navi screen. just some thoughts for you.
I'm thinking about a double Dim unit. If you did it, you would need to lose one row of guages. I'm thinking that you could put 3 gauges above the unit, and then have combination gauges where the speedo and tach go. Therefore, you wouldn't lose any gauges in total. My daily driver has speedo & fuel on one gauge, with tach and temp on the other.
I don't really like the pop out screens, and I would want it visible so the glove box is not an option. I really just wondering what if before I go buy a single dim and a replacement bezel for it.
The double dim would also require a custom bezel for the center dash console. I just haven't seen any aftermarket options. If anyone has seen it done, post some pics if you've got it.
There's nothing that I have seen as far as a bezel for a double DIN unit. There are aftermarket ones for single DIN but they are pricey for sure. I found a bezel from 72-76 that had already been cut for a single DIN unit then got a little cover plate that hide the cut. This way I didn't have to cut my original bezel. I am in the process of installing it all right now and putting the dash back together. Soooo much fun!
I like the dakota digital all-in-one because it has the turn signal indicator and check engine light as well as the oil, temp, etc. You can also get adapters for all of the sensors and they go to a central box and then to the gauges.
I am months away from the interior and I can't decide if I want to keep the original look, so I have plenty of time to decide. I would be interested in what others do.
To go double din you will need effectively a complete custom set up if you want to keep all your gauges. It can be done but not inexpensive or easy considering you'll need to re-work your gauge sending/inputs etc.
Also, you will need a double din nav unit that doesn't require a VSS wire or install a magnetic VSS.
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (appearance mods)
C3 of Year Winner (appearance mods) 2019
I have seen one iPad install on a C3 somewhere. They did a MAJOR rework of the entire dash including the pad. I don't want to go that extreme. I have been thinking about a double din mod also and have considered an iPad.
BTW, there are strong rumors that there will be a smaller iPad coming out soon. THAT might have some real potential.
I have a nav system from Dual, the same kind they sell at Walmart. Best part about them is you don't have to lose any gauges. It fits in a standard slot and when you want to use the nav or anything on the screen you just push a button and it folds out. Works pretty good. It also plays DVDs, mp3s, Bluetooth phone hookup, pictures, sd car music, backup camera (with camera you buy) and even hooks up wirelessly to my iPhone and plays audio that way. It's not the best system in the world but it gets he job done.
Here is the link. Again not the best player in the world but it will do. Also you will need to install a small metal plate to your roof to attach a magnet that runs the nav.(held on by a strong doublesided tape) Very shallow and I barely even know its there but maybe that's just me. I can send pictures if you would like.
Junkman123: did you end up doing the double din setup? If not how come? Do you thi k I will work good?
I was thinking of getting a plate machined just like the cardboard template you made. Then getting the plate wrapped in the same type material as the dash so it will look as genuine as possible.
Anyone done this?
Originally Posted by junkman123
here is a template i made when i was thinking of putting a double dine in the 79.i was goin to use oil,temp,and a fuel gauge only
no i never did the double,i got a deal on a flip out so i used it instead so i could keep all my factory gauges.i don't see any reason it wont work,there is plenty if room back there for a double din to sit in.