Cloudy Meter & Gauge Solution

ccguy · #1 02-13-2016, 01:13 PM

A solution to the problem of gauges and meters that still work but are difficult to read doesn’t have to be replacement. Working on a very early 82 CCC 682, both the Ammeter and the analog “clock type” Hour Meter were difficult to read – both over 36 years old. Not wanting to replace original working parts, I searched for a solution – and found it. I used Meguiar’s PlastX with great results. My method:

-Remove meter/gauge from dash
-Tape off rear electrical connections and any holes in the housing where water could enter
-Hit the face of meter/gauge with compressed air
-Place a little warm water and dishwashing liquid on face (do not submerge), gently but thoroughly clean with rag
-While still wet with soap and water, use a cotton swab and clean the edge of the face where it meets the housing
-Under LOW pressure, rinse with warm water
-Allow to dry
-Follow directions on product. Use a clean 100% cotton rag. Apply as many times as necessary. I used about 7 applications to get the gauges looking acceptable to me. Buff with new microfiber rag.
-Have patience.

Although I neglected to take before pics (didn’t think of writing this up until after I read some recent threads mentioning cloudy gauges), after pics are below (my reflection is in the hour gauge face on the right – it is not cloudy).

Will they look like NOS? No. 90% improvement? Yes.

Hope this helps.