They are ok, considereing their chinese lineage. I think I would still rather have Autometer or maybe a good set of vintage SW guages.
Scoop, I have looked at em here in town. Considering the issues guys have had with the newer IMPORTED SWs I see these as being as good if not better.
I bought a full set of 5 gauges with new ignition and lights switch off of Craigs list for $100 . All new including the speedo. They look vintage but don't expect them to be all metal.
I kind of figured they would be plastic.Kind of like the idea of the ring that screws on the back of the gauge for mounting.Parts City here in town has them,they give me a discount cuz I spend alot of money there.
I'm the Product Manager for all the gauges and most of the tools. I'm bugging upper management for a more traditional looking line Yes, the gauges are Chinese, but they work well and if you have a problem our customer service will take car of it. (or you can let me know) Mike
Nothing made today is of the quality craftsmandanship of your vehicle's original gauges. Most aftermarket sets are basically the same, but you should definitely expect to pay for quality. Do it right the first time and go with a company that will be able to provide replacements in the future.
Unlike many of the builders here, I actually prefer electronic speedometers and gauges. When I looked at the Equus they did not have what I wanted. Has that changed?
Just like 95 % of all reproduction parts even though they are US Companies , still made in China. The sign of the times.
In the 7K series, which is what most of us would prefer out of the three lines, the only electric is the water temp. I'm with you on the electric gauges, they are just as reliable and so much cleaner to install. I put a set in my Model A, but I had our QC make me an electric oil gauge Threads like this are something that I can present to management to help push our lines and give the people what they want. Thank you, Mike
I got the $25 fuel gauge from rebusan (ebay ID) -- well worth it. I too like the screw-on back ring, easy to mount. And I like the LED back-lit dial. I had a problem with the first $16 one I bought (sender ohms mis-described) but he solved that issue quickly. Sorry if this seems like a plug but he is one of the good ebay seller.
At least the 1959 Caddy lights LOOK like 1959 Caddy lights. Compare a REAL 1950 Pontiac taillight to a "1950 Pontiac Style" one. You'll see a lot of differences. You can spot the chinese ones at car shows from twenty feet away. It would be like buying a poster of Marilyn Monroe and receiving one of Rosie O'donell. The anatomy is the same, but in reality they're really different.
My tach started on fire right on my steering column, driving down the road. Scared the **** out of me, almost caused an accident while I tried to pull over and put the flames out. This brings up another point, buy a good fire extinguisher!
These Equus gauges are available at Canadian Tire for those in Canada. For economical gauges they'd look alright in your dash.
I was running their Ford fuel gauge and a volt gauge. Had no problems whatsoever. Only reason I switched out was because I found a complete set of early Econoline gauges that I swapped in.
I put the 7000 series gauges in my Austin g***er when I built it. Got speedo, fuel level, oil pressure, water temp and volts, all for under $135. I like the old style look and the mounting ring. They work great, and can't beat that price, as others were more than twice the amount.
Used them in 5 projects, never had a problem. I do not have a problem with "Gucci" look alike, saves money and makes money and never had to replace one.
NO shame in using something to get by and upgrading later (Im doing this one some gauges as well, using Bosch gauges). But have some SW waiting once everything is done and confirmed. If its a temp gauge check with an IR gun to see that it reads right, just double check things.