::.. ACS Carbon Fiber Dash and Chrome Bezels

[Qube]

Here's a theoretical example of ACS Carbon Fiber dash and Chrome Bezel rings. The rings won't fit with the ACS because it makes it thick so everything is just 'sitting' on it. The Carbon Fiber looks MUCH better in person with the clear front in place than in the pictures. The pictures make it look 'tacky'

In my opinion, with JUST the rings, it makes the cluster look a LOT better. With the fiber, it's a little too much.
.

[Jay 535i]

Yeah, I think you're right.

I sure hope that CF looks better in person

[angrypancake]

IMO I think it would better at night when illuminated. Where would one get said cf dash? It would probly look the best if your needles were red...

[Booster]

IMHO the CF plate would have had a more refined look in whats known as 2x2 Twill rather than the plain weave used there. Twill has more of a technical appearence with grey/silver and black tones.
How much time would estimate pulling the pod out and installing the trim took ??
..............Vinny

[Jay 535i]

You make a decision about those chrome bezels, Qube? I'll take 'em off yer hands.

[Qube]

If all I did was get down to business, it can be done in 30 minutes or less. I don't have an airbag.

- Extend the steering column out all the way
- Impact the steering wheel nut out
- Take off two + screws holding the dash
- Pull out dash and *easily* unplug four (?) cables with quick release tabs
- Separate front 'glass' section and template (area around gauges) from electronics
- Heat and separate CAREFULLY 'glass' and template (area around gauges)
- Stick on CF and rings if you want
- Install reverse order

* the rings will NOT fit (snap in) if you have the CF stuck on. I spot glued my rings in. If you're doing JUST the rings, then you most likely WON'T need to separate the 'glass' and the template section, making it MUCH easier.

As for red needles, I'm investigating the red illuminated needles like they have in the VWs...

All parts from eBay.

Install hint: MAKE SURE EVERYTHING IS DUST FREE (compressed air, microfiber cloths) before you install and during the entire reinstall process!

[Qube]

Just found a pic of chrome rings plus carbon...

http://www.goodstuffs4u.com/chrome_gauge_rings.htm

[Booster]

Just found a pic of chrome rings plus carbon...

http://www.goodstuffs4u.com/chrome_gauge_rings.htm

Yes Qube........that is 2x2 Twill CF ( as opposed to Plain weave) ...Much better IMHO.
I like that look with the trim rings too ! On a side note.....I've been trying to decide which interior panels/parts that I wanted to build molds from to make some nice touches of CF parts. Tough one really. Too much could ,look bad quickly in our cars.
Vinny