The Dakota Digital RTX Series Gauge Cluster for 1951–1952 Chevrolet Cars represents the ultimate instrument upgrade for classic Styleline and Fleetline builds. Dakota Digital’s engineering team has meticulously captured the look of the original 1950s dashboard while layering in modern, high-precision performance.
Unlike kits that require you to reuse your old, weathered trim, this premium system includes custom-designed, CNC-machined billet aluminum gauge bezels that follow the exact contour of the stock dashboard openings and feature a brilliant chrome-plated finish.
Vintage Aesthetic Meets Clever Modern Engineering
When the ignition is turned off, this cluster looks like a pristine, factory-original gauge set. Once you turn the key, it reveals massive upgrades in styling and capability:
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The Halo Tachometer: To preserve the iconic circular layout without adding an intrusive aftermarket tach pod, engine RPM is displayed by a striking ring of integrated LEDs that wrap seamlessly around the outer edge of the speedometer scale.
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Modern Precision: Sluggish factory mechanical needles are replaced with ultra-precise electronic stepper motors and sharp, high-contrast LED backlighting.
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Full-Color TFT Message Center: A high-definition configurable screen is embedded directly into the cluster face to manage secondary data, trip metrics, and performance tracking without cluttering the retro dash look.
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Customizable RGB Themes: Features over 30 user-selectable color options to independently change the illumination of the needles, sweeps, and digital displays. You can customize your layout from scratch or pick from 12 factory presets, with separate day and night brightness levels that toggle automatically with your headlight switch.
Comprehensive 5-Gauge Analog Package
This system converts your dashboard into a comprehensive data center, delivering far more mechanical accuracy than original 1950s equipment:
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Speedometer: 0–120 MPH (Optional metric version: 0–200 km/h)
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Oil Pressure: 0–80 psi
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Water Temperature: 100–260°F (Optional metric version: 40–120°C)
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Fuel Level: E, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, F
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Voltmeter: 9–17 VDC
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Tachometer (LED Ring & Digital): 0–8,000 RPM
Built-In Safety Indicators & Performance Trackers
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Stealth Indicators: Modern diagnostic lights remain completely hidden until activated, including Left/Right Turn Signals, High Beam, Check Engine, Parking Brake, and Cruise Control. Each analog gauge sweep also includes an integrated red warning LED that flashes automatically during an over-limit condition.
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Performance Metric Logs: Track your hot rod's performance metrics with built-in electronic timers for 0–60 MPH, 1/8-mile, and 1/4-mile runs, along with trap speed, high-speed, and high-RPM recall.
Consolidated Control Box & Bluetooth Setup
Wiring individual modern gauges behind a tight 1950s dash can quickly turn into a cluttered nightmare. The RTX series solves this by routing all instrument signals to a single, compact Central Control Box (5.5" x 3.5" x 1") that can be tucked away cleanly.
System calibration—including setting the odometer to match your vehicle's true mileage (a one-time user configuration)—can be handled via the included external hardwired two-sided rocker switch. For an even more intuitive setup, the cluster features built-in Bluetooth compatibility. Simply download the free app to your Apple or Android smartphone or tablet to calibrate your speedometer, adjust warning limits, configure color profiles, or view live diagnostic readouts.
Premium Solid-State Sensors Included
The package comes complete with ground-isolated, modern sending units to get your project up and running:
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Oil Pressure & Water Temp Sending Units: 1/8" NPT solid-state sensors with a 10-foot wiring harness and a comprehensive installation bushing kit (1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" NPT, plus 12mm and 16mm x 1.5 thread adapters).
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Electronic Speed Sensor: A modern 3-wire pulse generator that replaces your old mechanical GM speedometer cable. (Requires 5 inches of clearance extending from the transmission cable output; a relocation generator adapter is available separately if body or crossmember clearance is tight).
