1 Hole Gauge Panel, Chrome for 3-1/8

OVERVIEW

When it comes to monitoring your air-cooled engine''s performance, having a clear, accessible view of your tachometer or large-diameter instruments is absolutely critical. This EMPI 1-hole gauge panel provides the perfect mounting solution for those who want to add a 3-1/8 inch gauge without permanently altering or cutting into their classic Volkswagen''s original dashboard. Crafted with a high-luster chrome finish, this panel doesn''t just offer a functional mounting point; it adds a period-correct, custom look that complements the chrome accents found in vintage Beetle, Bus, and Ghia interiors. Whether you are building a high-revving street machine that needs a large tachometer or a rugged off-road rail requiring a secondary speedometer, this robust steel bracket ensures your vitals are always within your line of sight while maintaining a clean, professional appearance.

Designed specifically to accommodate the larger 3-1/8 inch (80mm) gauges common in the VDO and EMPI performance lines, this bracket features a heavy-duty construction that resists the vibrations inherent in air-cooled flat-four engines. The under-dash mounting design is incredibly versatile, allowing for installation in a variety of locations depending on your specific cockpit layout. It is an essential component for any enthusiast looking to bridge the gap between vintage aesthetics and modern engine monitoring. By choosing this genuine EMPI component, you are investing in a part that has been a staple of the VW community for decades, ensuring that your instrument remains secure and steady even during spirited driving across the dunes or down the highway.

FITMENT

This universal gauge panel is designed for wide-ranging compatibility across the air-cooled Volkswagen spectrum and custom kit car applications. It is ideally suited for the following:

• Volkswagen Beetle: All years and models (Standard and Super Beetle).
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: Split Window and Bay Window models.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All years.
• Volkswagen Type 3: Notchback, Squareback, and Fastback models.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): All years.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Perfect for fiberglass bodies or tubular frames where dash space is limited.
• Custom Kit Cars: Including Bradley GT, Meyers Manx, and other VW-based platforms.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The following technical details ensure this panel meets the rigorous demands of your Volkswagen build:

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 14-1006-0
• Material: Heavy-gauge stamped steel for maximum rigidity.
• Finish: High-quality, mirror-polished chrome plating.
• Hole Diameter: Precision cut for 3-1/8 inch (approx. 80mm) gauges and tachometers.
• Configuration: Single (1) hole layout.
• Mounting Style: Under-dash flange with pre-drilled mounting holes.
• Weight: Approximately 0.19 lbs, providing a lightweight yet sturdy support system.
• Compatibility: Optimized for VDO, Autometer, and EMPI 3-1/8 inch instruments.

PRO TIPS FROM THE SHOP

Tip 1: Ensure a Solid Ground Connection

Many 3-1/8 inch tachometers and gauges rely on the mounting bracket or the dash itself for a chassis ground to complete the lighting or signal circuit. Because this panel is chrome-plated, the finish can sometimes act as an insulator. When installing, we recommend using a small star washer between the mounting screw and the bracket, or even better, running a dedicated ground wire directly to the gauge''s ground terminal. This prevents flickering needles or dim backlighting, which are common headaches in older electrical systems. Don''t rely solely on the physical contact of the chrome to provide a clean electrical path.

Tip 2: Vibration Dampening for Longevity

Air-cooled Volkswagens are notorious for their engine harmonics and road vibration, especially in off-road buggies or lowered street cars. To prevent the mounting screws from backing out over time, always use a small drop of medium-strength thread locker on your mounting hardware. Additionally, if you are mounting this to a metal dashboard, placing a thin strip of adhesive-backed foam or a rubber washer between the bracket and the dash will significantly reduce "clatter" and protect your dash paint from being marred by the bracket''s edges. This keeps the installation quiet and looking professional for years to follow.

Tip 3: Plan Your Wiring Route Early

Before you final-mount the panel under your dash, mock up your wiring harness. Large gauges like tachometers often require four or five wires (Power, Ground, Signal, and Illumination). Use a protective wire loom or heat shrink tubing to bundle these wires together as they exit the back of the gauge. This not only looks much cleaner but also prevents the wires from snagging on your feet or the steering column. If you are mounting this in a Dune Buggy or an open-top vehicle, ensure the wiring is secured high enough to stay away from moisture and debris that might enter the cabin area.