86mm Time Clock for Type 2, Grey Dial Silver Center

OVERVIEW

Elevate the interior of your vintage Volkswagen Type 2 with the timeless elegance of the EMPI 86mm Time Clock. Designed to mirror the iconic aesthetic of the legendary Smiths gauges, this timepiece features a sophisticated grey dial with a striking silver center that captures the true essence of mid-century automotive design. For the VW enthusiast who understands that restoration is in the details, this clock fills that empty dash hole with a functional piece of art. Whether you are cruising in a Split Window or a modified Bay Window, the classic font and needle styling ensure that your dashboard retains its period-correct charm while providing the modern reliability of a 12-volt movement. This isn''t just a gauge; it''s a tribute to the golden era of air-cooled motoring, meticulously crafted to meet the high standards of Appletree Auto customers who demand both form and function.

Precision-engineered for a seamless fit, this 86mm clock is the definitive solution for owners looking to complete their instrument cluster without compromising on quality. The high-contrast grey face and silver center button offer excellent legibility even in low-light conditions, while the chrome-finished bezel provides a sharp, clean border that complements original factory trim. At Appletree Auto, we know that original mechanical clocks are often seized or inaccurate after decades of service; this EMPI unit offers a robust electronic movement that keeps perfect time, ensuring you are never late for the next vintage VW meetup. The installation is straightforward, designed to integrate directly into the factory dashboard layout, making it an essential upgrade for any serious Type 2 restoration project or daily-driven Transporter.

FITMENT

This 86mm gauge is specifically tailored for Volkswagen Type 2 applications, primarily focusing on the following years and models:

• Volkswagen Type 2 Split Window Bus: 1955-1967 (Fits factory large gauge pod).
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bay Window Bus: 1968-1979 (May require specific dash configurations or aftermarket pods).
• Custom Air-Cooled Projects: Any vehicle utilizing an 86mm (3.38 inch) mounting hole.
• Voltage Compatibility: Designed strictly for 12-Volt electrical systems.

SPECS

Technical specifications and material details for the EMPI 14-1155-0 Time Clock:

• Diameter: 86mm (Standard large-format VW gauge sizing).
• Dial Color: Vintage Grey with Silver Center Button.
• Bezel Finish: Polished Chrome / High-Lustre Silver.
• Movement Type: High-precision 12V Electronic Quartz.
• Illumination: Internal backlighting compatible with standard VW dash light circuits.
• Mounting Style: U-bracket and thumb-nut rear mounting for secure vibration resistance.
• Input Voltage: 12 Volts DC.
• Lens Material: High-clarity scratch-resistant glass.
• MPN: 14-1155-0.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Proper Power Sourcing for Constant Accuracy

When wiring your new Smiths-style clock, it is critical to distinguish between your power sources. Unlike your speedometer or oil pressure gauge, the clock requires a constant 12V unswitched power lead (Terminal 30) to keep time when the ignition is turned off. However, the internal illumination bulb should be wired to your headlight switch or dash light circuit (Terminal 58) so that it only glows when your lights are on. If you wire the main clock movement to a switched ignition source, you will find yourself resetting the time every single time you start the engine, which can lead to unnecessary wear on the adjustment mechanism.

Tip 2: Ensuring a Solid Chassis Ground

Vintage Volkswagens are notorious for "ghost" electrical issues caused by poor grounding, especially through painted or corroded dashboards. To ensure your clock keeps steady time and the illumination doesn''t flicker, don''t rely solely on the metal-to-metal contact of the mounting bracket against the dash. We highly recommend running a dedicated ground wire from the clock''s ground terminal directly to the main chassis ground star or a clean, unpainted section of the body. This prevents voltage drops that can cause the electronic movement to lag or fail prematurely.

Tip 3: Battery Maintenance During Long-Term Storage

Because this clock draws a very small but constant amount of current to maintain the quartz movement, it can contribute to battery drain if your Bus sits for several months without being started. If you plan on storing your Type 2 over the winter, we suggest using a high-quality battery tender or a physical battery disconnect switch. If you use a disconnect switch, remember that the clock will stop; upon reconnecting the battery, always turn the adjustment knob gently in the clockwise direction to set the correct time. Avoid forcing the hands counter-clockwise, as this can put undue stress on the internal gear train of the 12V movement.