Dual Pod A-Pillar install problem

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Feb 15, 2004 | 07:36 PM

2k1vert

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Joined: Sep 2003

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From: Cary NC

Dual Pod A-Pillar install problem

Has anyone encounter problems installing the Auto Meter Dual Pod Full Pillar?

I followed the instructions to drill (4) 3/16" holes and installed the cover over the factory pillar. It aligned and fit like a glove. It flushed evenly on all sides and ends of the original pillar. My problem is getting it to snap back into the 3 slots. Seems the lower gauge pod strikes the side of the dash surrounding the intrument cluster. I have twisted, pushed, pulled and studied over this for about 45 minutes and do not see how this could possibly clear the dash to allow the pillar to slip about 1/2" lower so the 3 slots will line up.

Suggestions please. I'm almost under the impression it might be for a different year corvette.

:banghead:

[Modified by 2k1vert, 7:41 PM 2/15/2004]

Feb 15, 2004 | 07:54 PM

dads01dream

Melting Slicks

Joined: Apr 2002

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Re: Dual Pod A-Pillar install problem (2k1vert)

I'm a little confused by your description of the problem. The Autometer pod doesn't fit into any slots..... The factory A-pillar does. What you should try to do is re-install the factory pillar without the autometer cover, take careful note "how" you get it aligned with the mounting slots.

Then, if you get it to mate-up, simply remove it and re-assemble with the autometer pod (do not affix the two pods together yet), once you get everything aligned..... Then re-attach everything. It sounds like you have a little alignment problem. Wish ya the best!!!
:seeya

Feb 15, 2004 | 08:01 PM

Oregonvette

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From: Bandon Or

Re: Dual Pod A-Pillar install problem (dads01dream)

You may be having the same problem I had when I installed mine. I drilled the holes a bit too close to the sides of the pod. When you start to reinstall the pod, the plastic screws, that you install in the holes to keep the pods together, hit the metal strip where the tabs go and kept it from snapping into place. What I did was install two sided tape to keep the halves together and then cut down the plastic screws so that they snapped into the drilled holes but didn't go all the way through. Mine snapped right back into place and looks neat and clean and hasn't moved in a year. Good luck !

Feb 15, 2004 | 08:04 PM

Cliff99C5hardtop

Burning Brakes

Joined: Oct 2000

Posts: 1,135

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From: NJ

Re: Dual Pod A-Pillar install problem (2k1vert)

Or you could just dop what I did......I used velcro strips for an even cleaner install. It is alot easier when you need to access it ever again. I wish I had pics to show you. :steering:

Feb 15, 2004 | 08:42 PM

2k1vert

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From: Cary NC

Re: Dual Pod A-Pillar install problem (dads01dream)

dads01dream
Sorry for the poor description. The 3 slots I'm refering too are the OEM pillar tabs with metal clips that pop into the 3 slots in the A-trim. When the cover is placed over the OEM A-Trim, it will not slide low enough to align the slots because the lower pod on the cover strike the dash.

Oregonvette
I had the same thought, that perhaps I installed the push pins to close to the edge causing them to hit the metal and keep it from setting. I like you idea of trimming them down. Unfortunately I don't think that is my problem because I can see that it stops on the dash and now have scuff marks from where it is hitting. Obviously if it has worked for others then it is mostly likely something I've done.

Cliff99C5hardtop
I really like your idea about using velcro. I wished I had thought about that myself before drilling holes in mine. :(

Thanks for your suggestions. I will keep folling with it when I'm in a better disposition. I've learn that when I get frustrated to put it aside and come back later.

:cheers:

[Modified by 2k1vert, 8:45 PM 2/15/2004]

Feb 15, 2004 | 09:09 PM

2k1vert

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Joined: Sep 2003

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From: Cary NC

Re: Dual Pod A-Pillar install problem (2k1vert)

Okay, I could not let it sit. Even though I have removed/replace the factory A-trim at least 3 times prior, I for some reason decided to do it wrong for 45 minutes. The lower forked piece near the door jam at the bottom is suppose to sit on the outside if the metal column and has a piece of trim that snaps over it to cover it up. I was trying to insert it in the slot where the fender appears to bolt up. :crazy: Duh... I took a little effort, but for the most part it slipped right into place after that.

Thanks for you help.

:cheers: