I would like to install an in-dash tachometer in my 72 GS 350. The car never had one. What parts would I need? Can I use my stock distributor?
It's going to be an original rebuilt one. Does it get wired to the distributor? Will I need a tach adapter? I don't know if these are stupid questions or not, but I'm clueless with these.
There is only one wire from the tachometer to the - side of the coil. The tachometer case is grounded to the dash. That's it.
Thank you Larry, I can't even begin to tell you how helpful you have been with my first build. I really appreciate all the help you have given me.
Just to add a bit to what Larry has already said regarding the ground at the dash. There should be a flat ground strap that connects one of the mounting studs for the tach to the stud on the gauge next door (the speedo). Make sure that strap is still there and that the case of the tach you are installing is not painted where it mounts to the dash. If it is, you should scrape off the paint so that bare metal of the case makes contact with the ground strap.
I can tell that it is an advantage if u have small hands & skinny arms. There is not much room. Now, if u remove the dash pad, then lots of room.
Thanks gstewart, I was going to ask a friend to help me. He is a very small person, maybe he could get his hands in there.
The dash pad isn't as hard to remove as you might think. Remove the glove box insides, the dash pad, the filler panel below the steering column, and disconnect the gear indicator from the steering column. Then loosen the two 9/16 nuts that hold the steering column up and lower it as much as possible without removing nuts. Then, remove the Phillips screws (I think there 8) that hold the cluster in and pull it back as much as you can without having to remove the speedo cable. This should give you plenty of room to remove the clock or delete plate and install the tach. Takes 1 to 2 hours without any issues. These instructions are also in the chassis manual.
Thanks again. Hopefully we can get it without removing the dash but I'll keep your instructions just in case. I appreciate your help.
Remember........there's always another dash pad nut you might forget. I have experience in the "forget & break the dash pad dept. ". Another option is to simple remove the radio to provide access. You'll also have a couple spare light sockets in the area for use with the tach. or a clock. Chassis Manual can help with bulb sizes.
