I'm about to remove a factory tach from the cluster and replace with the 24 hour Rallye Clock which my car came with from the factory. I'm aware that the factory clock connector is already back there. I've R&R'd a tach before but it's been awhile so help me remember if I can do this by just removing the dash cover and maybe the radio? Or, do I need to drop the steering column and remove the cluster screws in order to lower the cluster to get to the tach/clock location? Here's the new clock and the in-dash tach which will come out.
It can be done through the radio hole with some patience,but till you remove the radio,the support bracket etc,you can remove the dash pad,drop the steering column and do it that was a little simpler.Don't forget that pesky little wire that makes the needle move to each gear though.
The big question is if it's a AC car or non AC. The radio removal is more involved on an AC car. And I think the center ducting gets in the way when taking out the clock. I think I took the dash pad off too
Yes, I remember that little gear indicator linkage. I bent it the first time I removed a cluster. Never again. LOL
Yes, it's an AC car and I had to remove the center duct on my last GS to install a tach. I think I may just lower the steering column and detach the cluster.
If you actually remove the dash screws and pull the dash forward, you can install it from the top. You have to unhook the dash harness from the J hooks to get the clearance needed. It's what I did when I removed my Autometer tach to install the repaired stock tach.
I'm remembering that since my car is an AC car, the center duct was a PITA to remove to get to the tach that way so, I've concluded that going in from the top is the way to go. Did you have to remove the dash pad and lower the steering column for your tach install?
Yes, it isn't so bad after you have done it numerous times. Don't forget the 2 screws above the pods, and the nuts above the glove box liner before you pull the dash pad. George N has a write up to refresh your memory. http://www.buickperformanceclub.com/cluster.htm