Gauge Cluster in Dash Storage Compartment?

[MaineShark]

Here's an idea I've been toying with...

I'm considering installing a Vintage Air A/C unit, which would mean the removal of the storage compartment in the dash (glove box, in any other car). Right now, it has some sort of tape (looks like 8-track) organizer, which is next to useless for me, since the previous owner put a CD-player in the car.

I'd also like to get some additional gauges in the car (probably trans temp, oil temp, and vacuum, for starters, but some more later).

So, I was looking at the construction of the storage compartment, and it looks like a new liner could be formed, which would only be an inch or so deep (just enough to bring the gauge bezels back far enough not to hit the door when it closes), and could be drilled to mount gauges. That would let me have the additional gauges, without cluttering-up the interior. They would be invisible, except when I wanted the additional info. Then I could just pop the door on the compartment, and have all the extra gauges.

I was actually thinking that the plate the gauges are mounted to could be hinged at the left side, and spring-loaded to pop out a few inches at the right, to angle the gauges for easier viewing. A small nylon post on the door would push the plate back as the door was closed.

Good idea? Bad idea?

Has anyone done something like this, before?

And, does anyone have any thoughts on doing it?

Joe

 

[woobie1966]

hi joe, im not too familiar with your interior (i dont have a glove box) the only problem i see is being able to read the gauges effectively without having your eyes off the road too long. how about your same idea but have the gauges in the spot you suggest, but have the whole assembly move 45 degrees towards you ( the one closest to the passenger door would move out the furthest) to aid in quick viewing?
just a thought
mike

 

[MaineShark]

That's what I was considering. I can make it pivot out about 20 degrees, I think, without trouble. And I can mount the gauges at an angle, on the plate. In other words, make the plate zig-zag, so each column of gauges is at an angle, with a step between them to bring the face of the plate back to the 20-degree line.

Joe