Finding the right console tach for my '66 300

[Zymurgy]

I haven't even started my '66 300 yet and I'm already trying to find some different parts. I would like to replace the tachy "fuel economy" gauge. I don't know the exact name of it, but I thought originally it was a console tach.

I have two different thoughts: 1. Find an original tach, I have and one in decent cosmetic condition seem to be $500 and up. 2. Find a new tach and place it in my current console. I have found new stickers that have the 60's tach layout, but I have to find a new tach with the same layout and size. Has anyone done something similar, or found a new vintage looking Mopar tach?

 

[bluefury361]

Performance indicator....

I would like to replace the tachy "fuel economy" gauge. I have two different thoughts: 1. Find an original tach, I have and one in decent cosmetic condition seem to be $500 and up.

It sounds like you have an original "performance indicator". A factory option that is mounted on the console. Those are at least as valuable as the original tach's, maybe even more so.
I bet you might find someone to trade, but the tach's are only 6K RPM and more of a decoration then anything, I'd keep the performance indicator if it is original to the car.

 

[Zymurgy]

I would like to replace the tachy "fuel economy" gauge. I have two different thoughts: 1. Find an original tach, I have and one in decent cosmetic condition seem to be $500 and up.

It sounds like you have an original "performance indicator". A factory option that is mounted on the console. Those are at least as valuable as the original tach's, maybe even more so.
I bet you might find someone to trade, but the tach's are only 6K RPM and more of a decoration then anything, I'd keep the performance indicator if it is original to the car.

I never thought about it being valuable or even that it was a factory option, it is original. I honesty would probably never look at a tach down there either especially since I have an automatic. Thanks for the advice.

 

[rexus31]

Only the manual trans cars got the tach and it is shaped differently than the vacuum gauge (what you have). I like the console mounted vacuum gauge and get lots of comments on it at car shows. It was indeed a factory option when the bucket seats were ordered with an auto trans. Here are a few pics of mine:

 

[Greg B.]

Wow, that is cool! I would definitely keep that if I already had it.

 

[commando1]

I love factory tachs but that factory Performance Indicator is waaay cooler. Please keep it!

 

[commando1]

Will you please STOP tormenting me.

Here are a few pics of mine:

 

[rexus31]

Will you please STOP tormenting me.

That's no fun! s_dancing2:

 

[Zymurgy]

I love factory tachs but that factory Performance Indicator is waaay cooler. Please keep it!

OK I'm keeping it, now that I know it's cooool!

 

[Zymurgy]

Only the manual trans cars got the tach and it is shaped differently than the vacuum gauge (what you have). I like the console mounted vacuum gauge and get lots of comments on it at car shows. It was indeed a factory option when the bucket seats were ordered with an auto trans. Here are a few pics of mine:

I love your red '65. That is one beautiful car.

 

[Zymurgy]

Now that I have embraced my performance indicator, here is a picture of the day I picked her up and then after I cleaned her up. Note the dial thermometer in the before picture (not a factory option).

 

[azblackhemi]

I love your red '65. That is one beautiful car.

You should see it in person. Even nicer!

 

[1978 NYB]

Now that I have embraced my performance indicator, here is a picture of the day I picked her up and then after I cleaned her up. Note the dial thermometer in the before picture (not a factory option).

View attachment 5558View attachment 5557

Looks great! Vast improvement.

 

[Stormer]

Yea, keep the vacuum gauge.

That thing sure cleaned up nice.

 

[polara71]

You've come a long way. Feeling lucky and proud, aren't you?

 

[rexus31]

I love your red '65. That is one beautiful car.

You should see it in person. Even nicer!

Thanks, guys!

 

[Zymurgy]

You've come a long way. Feeling lucky and proud, aren't you?

You hit the nail on the head. I can see such great potential with this car. It's driving me nuts not having the time to work on it right now. I'm asking a bunch of questions now so when November hits I'll probably work around 8 to 12 hours on the weekends to get her running. Then the real fun will begin.

 

[rexus31]

The tach for your console may look identical to the vacuum gauge. I was speaking to '65's regarding the differences in appearance. Someone with more knowledge of '66's may be able to chime in.

 

[bluefury361]

The tach for your console may look identical to the vacuum gauge.QUOTE]

The performance indicator as pictured in the 66 shared the same housing with the tach. Both were optional in any console equipped B & C body from 1966 through 1969, (I have never seen a 70 with either).
The guage was mounted on the console lid with a single spring loaded nut and could be rotated from center to left a limited amount to suit the drivers line of vision.

 

[polara71]

They were offered in a 69 C body?


Prove it........please.