DIY: Taking apart the gauges

[SMART]

So I am in the middle of dissecting the gauge and wanted to know if anyone has any experience with creating overlays for the gauges. I have it all apart and could probably make a template... but where do I go from there?

Pics to come.

[SMART]

Well I proved to myself that I could tear apart the gauges and put them back together and they work so I decided to put everything back in the car, but only after painting at least one piece.

Smart fortwo gauges ripped apart:


All back together with the inside plastic painted black:


If now I could only replicate the BRABUS gauges I would be very happy!

[smartune]

I know of a few people that have done it to other cars.

Basically scanning the existing overlay into the computer, "refinishing" it using your favorite design program and printing onto plastic stock.

Why change the overlay? It's pretty modern and goes well with the car. IMHO white-faced guages were played out back in the 90's and real carbon requires expensive equipment to work with.

-Dan

[SMART]

Originally Posted by smartune

I know of a few people that have done it to other cars.

Basically scanning the existing overlay into the computer, "refinishing" it using your favorite design program and printing onto plastic stock.

Why change the overlay? It's pretty modern and goes well with the car. IMHO white-faced guages were played out back in the 90's and real carbon requires expensive equipment to work with.

-Dan

Well as I said... I am looking for black gauges... I have never been one for white, green, blue, or any of that wacky stuff. I will admit I love the yellow on the Ferraris (see first) and the yellow pin on the Mugen gauges (see second pic) but that wouldn't work for the smart.