7 replies to this topic

[DClarke1954]

My 1975 Mini has the 3 clock rectangular plastic binnacle.

 

The issue I have is that a lot of the key info is just not possible to see without craning your neck in some contortionist fashion.

If the column is where Mr. Issigonis says it should be then the temp gauge isn't visible (blocked by the steering wheel's central boss and spokes).

If you drop the steering column on an extender then the steering wheel rim completely obscures BOTH indicator tell-tales.

What is the answer?  Different steering wheel with smaller boss and thinner spokes?  Variable adjustment extender to find a sweet-spot?
I cannot be the only one that has suffered this deadly embrace and mis-match surely?
All answers welcome.

 

[Ethel]

I was always too occupied trying to peer through a fogged up windscreen to look 'n see if the speedo cable had snapped again.

 

I'd sort the steering wheel to how it's best for steering, then bother about your Min telling you it's being a Mini.

 

Congratulations by the way - you must have done a good job of sorting your wee motor to be concerned with this stuff 

[sonscar]

My 1989 car has similar clocks and it's original steering wheel.Viewing the clocks is as you say,much moving of head to see all of it.I also find that it wouldn't atter even if you could see aalof it as they are in a dark tunnel and almost invisible.At night they are so poorly illuminated there is little improvement.Completely normal I think.Steve..

[mab01uk]

The best answer to the problem I think, is to convert back o the original Issigonis design Mini Central Speedo type dash, as many later Mini owners do including me. The original parts required are all available new (or a lot cheaper secondhand at Mini Shows/Autojumbles or on Ebay, etc.)

 

Alternatively 'Hawthorn Mini Works' and others do aftermarket versions which incorporate space for a rev counter, etc.

 

Minispares - CENTRE CLOCK CONVERSION - WIRING HARNESS:-

"This is the wiring short conversion loom that fits to the old central speedo and is used by people modifying from 2 or 3 clock dashes to single clock or just repairing damaged looms. With the correct bulb holders and spade fittings. Now uses 5x GLB987 and 2X GLB2132 bulbs."

https://www.minispar...-wiring-harness

 

HMW Performance Dash Binnacle £175.00

"The HMW Performance Dash is a bolt-in centre binnacle for the Classic Mini - allowing you to mount the Speedo, an 80mm Rev Counter, and THREE 52mm ancillary gauges, all whilst sticking with the iconic look of the centre binnacle!  The speedo mounts directly to the binnacle - no need for additional brackets or housings!"

https://www.hawthorn...e-dash-binnacle

 

Nippy Cars Mini Dash Binnacles:-

https://nippycarsonl...-category/dash/

 

COOPER S 3 CLOCK BINNACLE SET 130MPH (Minispares) :-

"Complete binnacle set for centre speedo cars, kit includes 130 mph black speedo, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, binnacle and chrome surround (incl clips). Mini Spares also have a short loom which converts 3 clock Nippon Seiko gauge clusters positioned in front of driver to convert over to this 3 clock central fitting kit. Order as PM05."

https://www.minispar...acle-set-130mph

 

TMF Frequently Asked Questions - Converting To A Centre Speedo:-

https://www.theminif...-centre-speedo/

Edited by mab01uk, Yesterday, 10:40 AM.

[68+86auto]

I thought I was just short. Good that it isn't just me.

[DClarke1954]

The best answer to the problem I think, is to convert back o the original Issigonis design Mini Central Speedo type dash, as many later Mini owners do including me. The original parts required are all available new (or a lot cheaper secondhand at Mini Shows/Autojumbles or on Ebay, etc.)

 

Alternatively 'Hawthorn Mini Works' and others do aftermarket versions which incorporate space for a rev counter, etc.

 

Minispares - CENTRE CLOCK CONVERSION - WIRING HARNESS:-

"This is the wiring short conversion loom that fits to the old central speedo and is used by people modifying from 2 or 3 clock dashes to single clock or just repairing damaged looms. With the correct bulb holders and spade fittings. Now uses 5x GLB987 and 2X GLB2132 bulbs."

https://www.minispar...-wiring-harness

 

HMW Performance Dash Binnacle £175.00

"The HMW Performance Dash is a bolt-in centre binnacle for the Classic Mini - allowing you to mount the Speedo, an 80mm Rev Counter, and THREE 52mm ancillary gauges, all whilst sticking with the iconic look of the centre binnacle!  The speedo mounts directly to the binnacle - no need for additional brackets or housings!"

https://www.hawthorn...e-dash-binnacle

 

Nippy Cars Mini Dash Binnacles:-

https://nippycarsonl...-category/dash/

 

COOPER S 3 CLOCK BINNACLE SET 130MPH (Minispares) :-

"Complete binnacle set for centre speedo cars, kit includes 130 mph black speedo, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, binnacle and chrome surround (incl clips). Mini Spares also have a short loom which converts 3 clock Nippon Seiko gauge clusters positioned in front of driver to convert over to this 3 clock central fitting kit. Order as PM05."

https://www.minispar...acle-set-130mph

 

TMF Frequently Asked Questions - Converting To A Centre Speedo:-

https://www.theminif...-centre-speedo/

Many thanks for all these wonderful options to peruse.

[Shooter63]

Is your car an actual 1975 or has the plate been rung onto a later car, the reason I ask is, if it's a later car you'll need to mod a couple of things to get the central dash to fit, if you fancy going down that route.

 

Shooter

[68+86auto]

If you downgrade it to a two gauge cluster, it is easier to see. Well, at least the important ones are - oil light and temp gauge.

Edited by 68+86auto, Yesterday, 10:22 PM.