Espritblue
over x'd
OK, so have been spending last few months resurrecting 5 x1/9's that have been rotting for many years. Collected a box of 8 Vegliaflash clocks, more than enough for all 5 cars. well, over last 4 months, three that worked, no longer work, and one other reports time in an alien language I do not understand. Only had enough 7 seg. LED digits and driver chips for the repair of two units. I have panel blank inserts, but would be nice to have working clocks, but don't want to pay for a new or used working (for how long?) unit.
What if you went to, say Dollar Tree, and purchased a large LCD watch. Then collected some sheet PVC plastic remnants from Tap Plastics for a few cents. Scavenge some small screws (2) and black paint, cement, plastic model filler and an unjustifiable amount of time.
First the materials.
Fabricate the plastic and metal parts.
Cut metal back clip, drill, assemble PVC parts and paint.
Put it all together.
Snap it into the panel.
And that's a wrap. Works great. Was concerned that the small digit size would make it difficult to see time, but with so little distance from driver to panel, it is quite clear even with my old failing eyes. Next, I'm adding LED lighting. Next trip to Tap Plastics, I'll get some RTV mold and casting supplies. If I can mold the part rather than build up from PVC sheets, duplication will be easy.
Steve K
What if you went to, say Dollar Tree, and purchased a large LCD watch. Then collected some sheet PVC plastic remnants from Tap Plastics for a few cents. Scavenge some small screws (2) and black paint, cement, plastic model filler and an unjustifiable amount of time.
First the materials.
Fabricate the plastic and metal parts.
Cut metal back clip, drill, assemble PVC parts and paint.
Put it all together.
Snap it into the panel.
And that's a wrap. Works great. Was concerned that the small digit size would make it difficult to see time, but with so little distance from driver to panel, it is quite clear even with my old failing eyes. Next, I'm adding LED lighting. Next trip to Tap Plastics, I'll get some RTV mold and casting supplies. If I can mold the part rather than build up from PVC sheets, duplication will be easy.
Steve K