86mm Time Clock for Type 2, Black Dial

OVERVIEW

Elevate your vintage Volkswagen Type 2 interior to its original glory with the EMPI 86mm Smiths-style Time Clock. For any true air-cooled enthusiast, the dashboard is the cockpit of nostalgia, and nothing completes that classic aesthetic quite like a functional, period-correct timepiece. This 86mm clock features a crisp black dial with high-contrast white numbering and a polished bezel that mimics the iconic Smiths styling found in the legendary Split Screen Buses. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration or simply tired of staring at a blank dash plug, this clock provides the perfect blend of vintage soul and modern 12-volt reliability. It is designed to fit seamlessly into the factory gauge aperture, ensuring that your dashboard maintains the symmetrical, sophisticated look that Volkswagen intended over half a century ago.

Beyond its undeniable visual appeal, this time clock is engineered for the rigors of the road. While original mechanical clocks often suffer from seized movements or brittle components after decades of heat cycles, this EMPI unit utilizes updated internals to ensure accurate timekeeping throughout your cross-country treks or weekend cruises. The black face is designed to match the factory speedometer and auxiliary gauges, providing a cohesive look that feels like it rolled off the assembly line in Wolfsburg. Installing this unit does more than just tell the time; it restores a sense of completeness to your Bus, making every minute behind the wheel feel like a journey through history. Don''t settle for a modern, digital eyesore that clashes with your vintage aesthetic when you can have a high-quality, 86mm analog masterpiece that honors the heritage of the Type 2.

FITMENT

Volkswagen Type 2 (Split Screen) Models: 1955-1967 VW Type 2 Bus 1955-1967 VW Type 2 Kombi 1955-1967 VW Type 2 Transporter 1955-1967 VW Type 2 Single Cab Pickup 1955-1967 VW Type 2 Double Cab Pickup 1955-1967 VW Type 2 Panel Van Custom applications requiring an 86mm (approx. 3.38 inch) gauge opening

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI / Smiths Style
• Part Number: 14-1157-0
• Gauge Diameter: 86mm (Standard Type 2 Large Aperture)
• Operating Voltage: 12 Volt DC
• Dial Color: Classic Black
• Numbering: High-Contrast White
• Bezel Finish: Polished Chrome-Style
• Lens Material: High-Clarity Glass
• Mounting Type: Rear U-Bracket and Thumb Nuts
• Illumination: Integrated Backlighting for night visibility
• Movement: Precise Electric Quartz-Style Internals

PRO TIPS

1. Constant Power vs. Switched Power Wiring

When wiring your new 86mm clock, it is absolutely critical to distinguish between your power sources. Unlike your oil pressure or temperature gauges, a clock requires a constant 12-volt power source to keep time while the ignition is turned off. We recommend tapping into the constant power terminal on the back of your fuse box. However, for the internal illumination bulb, you should wire that into your headlight switch circuit (usually the terminal for instrument lights). This ensures the clock face only lights up when your headlights are on, preventing unnecessary battery drain and bulb wear during daytime driving.

2. Ensure a Solid Chassis Ground

Air-cooled Volkswagens are notorious for grounding issues, especially in the dashboard area where paint and light surface rust can act as insulators. Because this clock relies on a steady electrical signal to maintain accuracy, you should never rely solely on the physical mounting bracket for grounding. We highly recommend running a dedicated ground wire from the gauge terminal directly to a clean, unpainted spot on the vehicle chassis or a central grounding block. This prevents the clock from losing time or the internal light from flickering when you use other electrical components like wipers or turn signals.

3. Handling 6-Volt to 12-Volt Conversions

If you are installing this clock into an early Split Screen Bus that is still running its original 6-volt electrical system, please be aware that this is a 12-volt unit. Running a 12-volt clock on a 6-volt system will result in the clock failing to keep time or not moving at all. You will either need to convert your entire vehicle to a 12-volt system (a common and recommended upgrade for modern reliability) or utilize a high-quality 6V-to-12V step-up voltage converter specifically for the clock circuit. Always double-check your vehicle''s output with a multimeter before final installation to ensure the longevity of the internal movement.