DP10003 “Create-a-Dash”

****Read through all instructions completely
before beginning the installation. ***

NOTE: Disconnect battery cables to prevent
accidental contact with any live wires.

1) Using a piece of thin cardboard or construction paper, make a cutting template by tracing the mounting area for the digital panel on the back side of the dash.

2) Before continuing any further, cut out the six instrument outlines from the enclosed paper template. Tape these onto the panel template you created to make sure that there is enough area for mounting all units. NOTE: You must leave enough room around the perimeter of the instruments for four to six mounting screws (due to the varying sizes and thickness of dashboards, these fasteners are not supplied with the panel).

3) Using the template, trace the shape onto the enclosed backing plate (this is the piece of Plexiglas that is NOT see-through).

4) Using a slow speed electric or hand-held scroll saw, cut out the backing plate. Use a fine flat file to help smooth and refine any curves or sharp edges. Double check that the backing plate fits correctly into the dash location where the digital panel assembly is to be installed.

5) Locate adequate positions for the four to six mounting fasteners around the perimeter of the backing plate (make sure not to impede the mounting areas for the instruments). Drill and mount the backing plate to assure a good fit.

6) Once the backing plate is completely finished and you are absolutely sure of its fit, use it as a template to trace and cut out the Plexiglas faceplate. Determine the mounting screw size and, using the appropriate drill size (do not exceed 3/16”), mark and drill it for the four to six mounting screws. Use 600 grit wet and dry sandpaper to smooth any rough edges.

7) Lay out the circuit board assemblies on the backing plate in the desired configuration. Using them as templates, mark and drill the backing plate using a 9/64” bit. Use the enclosed screws, plastic spacers and locking nuts to mount the assemblies with the instruments facing the dashboard.

8) Using a 9/32” drill, open up the mounting holes in the backing plate and install the enclosed shouldered bushings so that the shoulder is seated against the back side (These bushings act as spacers to prevent the instrument components from being damaged against the face plate).