75 CJ5 Dash Question

[tonkatrucksryan]

Thank you all for all the advice. I just ordered a black painted diamond plate dash for ours. My question is how do I cut out all the holes for the gauges and switches? What do I need to buy and how hard is it?

Thanks

 

[elwood blues]

Are you reusing the OEM gauges, or going with aftermarket ones?

A hole saw kit will do you just fine for the switchs, vent cables and the smaller gauges. However, if you're reusing the OEM speedo cluster you're going to have to use either a jig saw or dremel type tool to cut out a hole that big.

 

[tonkatrucksryan]

Yes I am using the OEM Speedo. I bought a new one. what about the cover that say wiper, heat, etc

 

[elwood blues]

I looked at your other thread, this is the dash you're replacing, correct?

I don't understand what you're asking about.

 

[73CJ]

The speedo is like 5-9/16". I used a 5-1/2" hole saw and then router with carbide bit and guide bushing. Clamped the original over it backwards and went to town. Worked great.

Good luck.

 

[tonkatrucksryan]

Thank you for the advice. Can you post a pic of yours

 

[73CJ]

Sorry to take so long, I misplaced the camera cord.

This is a Nordskog digital gage that uses the stock chrome bezel. There is no flange to cover up a bad grinding job. Using the stock dash for a pattern and router w/ a guide bushing it cuts a per hole. It's best to use a speed control to slow the rpm down. I used a 4-flute end mill.