Dakota Digital dash

[ldr]

Hi all, I'm thinking about installing one in my Malibu. I would like hear some input from those who have one and thoughts on it. Thanks Lenny

 

[Wageslave]

I have mine in an '83 El Camino and I love it. I switched to the included green face plate to give it that factory 80's look and now have a matching compass rear view mirror to complete the effect.

The only big issues I have had with it are that it gets the voltage reading from the circuit it is powered from, so do not just hook it up to whatever accessory circuit is nearby or the voltage reading will dip way down every time you turn the radio up or use the cigarette lighter.

Also if you are running a TH 350, the speedometer drive adapter will not fully engage the threads on the transmission due to the built in nut on the adapter bottoming out on the bracket and hold down bolt. It can still be used but a little fab work to the provided adapter might be required. This will not be a problem if you fave factory cruise, as you can attach the adapter to the cruise module itself. Also, be careful with the provided sensors. They are quite durable but I smacked the oil pressure sensor against the firewall and broke the connector. It was about $75 to replace.

The cruise control may also be a little more work to retain the function of as there is a hall effect sensor built into the speedometer itself that gives speed info to the cruise system. It may be as simple as hooking that up to the 2000 ppm port on the controller but I removed my factory cruise, so I am not sure.

All in all, they take a little work but are well worth it.

 

[L92 OLDS]

I installed one for my LS 442 project. I really like the original factory rallye gauges but converting my 4L80E to cable drive was the same cost as updating to Dakota Digital. For the Cutlass Instrument Panel there are a few options. I chose the one with round gauges which replicates the factory gauges. Most people don't realize that they are aftermarket. I haven't driven the car much due to bad weather but some standouts for me are the LED back lighting system is top notch, the performance monitor options are cool (0-60 monitor and quarter mile) and you can configure these thing for almost any perceivable engine / trans combo. They are expensive but look and fit well. So far I am pleased.

 

[ldr]

Thanks guys, I order the VHX black face with white lights want it to look close to original. Wageslave what rear view mirror did you use?

 

[Wageslave]

Thanks guys, I order the VHX black face with white lights want it to look close to original. Wageslave what rear view mirror did you use?

It is a Gentex mirror out of an Oldsmobile Intrigue, There are several different styles out there, just buy according to the options you want. My only complaint with mine is that if I leave it hooked to always on power it will eventually drain the battery. Not a big deal to leave on accessory power, but something specific to map light models to look out for.

 

[ldr]

I'm thinking about their shift module, and outside air temp compass module. That way its all in the dash.

 

[ldr]

Ok gang, we're getting close for a cruise. Had some issues but Dakota Digital help he get them resolved.

 

[zdeckich]

Ok gang, we're getting close for a cruise. Had some issues but Dakota Digital help he get them resolved.
View attachment 64388

Love the steering wheel. Did you get it off ebay? I found one i like that's blue but doesn't match the blue of my car. Did you have your dyed or re-wrap it?

 

[ldr]

Actually bought it at a winter swap meet local, but it's the same one they sell on e bay. Its a forever sharp. I paint the wrap the same color as the dash.

 

[GrayMonte]

In the near future Im looking to do an LS engine conversion and was thinking about using this kit. Does it work well with the newer sensors and components?