The Dakota Digital RTX Gauge System for 1955–1959 Chevy Pickups is the ultimate "sleeper" upgrade for your Task Force truck. Designed to look like a perfectly preserved factory cluster at a glance, it hides a powerhouse of modern electronics, CNC-machined housings, and high-definition displays behind a vintage facade.
The Best of Both Worlds: Retro Styling, Modern Tech
The RTX series focuses on authenticity, incorporating OEM design elements, layout, and face styling. However, the moment you turn the key, the differences become clear:
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Expanded Instrumentation: It features a 120 MPH speedometer and an integrated 8,000 RPM tachometer—features never found in the original 1950s clusters.
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TFT Message Center: Discreetly placed behind the speedometer needle is a high-definition screen that provides a wealth of data, from odometers to performance timers.
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RGB LED Backlighting: Choose from over 30 user-selectable colors to independently light the needles, sweeps, and digital displays. You can even set different themes for daytime and nighttime driving.
Comprehensive Gauge Layout
The system includes six precision analog sweeps and a digital nerve center:
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Analog: Speedometer (120 MPH), Tachometer (8k RPM), Oil Pressure, Water Temp, Fuel Level, and Voltmeter.
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Digital Displays: Million-mile odometer, dual trip meters, clock, and estimated range (miles to empty).
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Performance Meters: 0–60 MPH timers, 1/4 and 1/8 mile ET/trap speed, and high-speed/RPM recall.
Integrated Indicators & Safety
The cluster replaces or adds several critical warning lights and indicators:
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Turn signals, High Beam, and Check Engine.
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Parking Brake and Cruise Control (when equipped).
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Specialty Indicators: 4x4, Wait to Start (for diesel swaps), and Gear Position (requires optional GSS-3000 sensor).
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Red LED Warnings: Each analog gauge (except the speedo) features a hidden red warning light that illuminates during an over-limit condition.
Simplified Installation & Calibration
Dakota Digital has moved away from the "rat's nest" of wiring behind the dash:
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Central Control Box: All sensors and power wires run to a single box (5.5" x 3.5"), which then connects to the display with a single data cable.
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Included Sensors: The kit comes with solid-state oil pressure and water temp sensors, plus a pulse generator to replace your old speedometer cable.
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Mobile App Configuration: While you can use the included push-button, the entire system can be calibrated and configured via Bluetooth using the free Dakota Digital app on your smartphone or tablet.
Compatibility Note
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Fitment: This system fits stock or reproduction 1955–1959 Chevy Pickup chrome bezels.
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Exclusion: This specific unit is not compatible with GMC pickups, which utilized a different dashboard and cluster configuration.
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Bezel: The chrome bezel is shown for illustrative purposes and is not included with the gauge kit.