hello all,
Ive got a CMC 1957 replica and would like to make it look as authentic as possible. I'm starting with the dash. Does anyone have any suggestions as to where to start, other than google/yahoo searches (I've exhausted that avenue). Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
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Well, you've got all winter.....You might start with finding someone local to you (check the local PCA registry) who has an original '57 - '65 Porsche 356 and take a bunch of photos of their dash and, while you're taking photos, make a dimensioned diagram of those dashes so you can duplicate them. That's what I did when someone asked about the differences between a Pre-A and a 356 A dash. Unfortunately (for you), I only collected info on the Pre-A dash. These photos are from a VERY original, 1955 Pre-A Speedster:
Thank you, Gordon, this is very helpful. Did you make your own dash? That is not beyond the scope of my skills and am willing to do so. Just trying to find the least labor- intensive route. Again, I appreciate your response. I've saved your email, hope you don't mind me contacting you on occaision.
Scott Kelley
Those three pictures were of a friend's original '55 Speedster. That dash has now been copied (I think) onto four different cars - one was a scratch build and the other three have had their dashes re-glassed and new holes cut for the Pre-A gauges, lights and switches. Interestingly, none of those cars that I know of are in the USA! Pretty easy conversion if you're starting from scratch, and a bit more work if you have a 3-gauge and want a 2 gauge set-up. You become pretty good at fiberglassing stuff.
So again......if you want a dimensioned drawing of a 356-A (3-gauge) to know where stuff is supposed to go, you'll either have to do what I did or get someone who knows where to find an original A or a replica with a dash that you like to make a dimensioned drawing/photo for you to follow.
Seems on Dash getting the steering columm correct would add to immediate period look. The locking post '68 column with key on it smacks vw. Get the older pre'66 column ($) and put the key on dash (this may impact the dia/# of splines on steering wheel boss). Then go for the under dash umberlla emergency brake ($$). Square off the center tunnel ($$$$) and add rotary heat contol knob. Don't forget the year appropriate Meister Shaffen badge (gold round badge to right). Picture follows Gordons pre-A. Wooow - no defrost vents?
Pssst ... take something for the Madness - it could get worse!
I keep getting upload error when trying to post interior photo!
http://www.khupholstery.com/Ga..._356SpeedsterGT.html
Thanks Wolfie, for that gallery of photos, what a collection of beautiful cars and excellent craftsmanship on the upholstery!
