Guage lighting update for the CSOB, Electro Luminescent illumination for your guages! Options

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Porsche Gauge illumination upgrade/modification.
For this write up I’ve used a 914 Tachometer, but the method is similar for other Porsche VDO gauges.



Pointers appear dim, but this is a short coming of my camera.
In real life pointers are easy to see.



Tools you will need:
Small flat screwdriver
Scissors
Soldering Iron
Wire stripper
Crimp tool

Parts you will need:
2 wire connectors
wire
Small diameter heat shrink tubing
Clear packaging plastic(saved from trash)
Scotch tape
solder
5 feet of Electro Luminesent wire
12v inverter for above wire



Gauge Dis-assembly:

First thing is to open up the gauge. This is done by prying at the bezel with a small screwdriver. Work around ¾ of the circumference of the gauge. It should be possible to remove the front trim bezel holding the lens in place. Beneath the lens is one or two additional bezel trim pieces (depending upon year of gauge).


Examine the rear of the gauge and you should notice 3 or 4 small flat head screws. These hold the gauge mechanism in place. CAREFULLY remove the mechanism by loosening the screws, and set the mechanism aside.

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Hold lens in place over trim bezels and look for EL wire. It should be tucked up nice and tight beneath trim bezel, and should NOT be visible from the side of an assembled gauge.

If all things look good, go ahead and re-assemble the gauge, by snapping the outer trim bezel on. Don’t re bend the bezel yet,, we need to test the gauge lighting. After gauge passes lighting test, seal it back up the best you can, by bending over the back of the outer bezel.

Repeat above procedure for as many gauges as you have in your car. If you also want to illuminate your glove box,, 2 small holes is all you need. Please remember to be tasteful in the application of accent lighting.