How many different instrument panel/gauge designs were used between 1947 and 1952?

[Lark Hunter]

I've long been interested in the blacklight illuminated instrument faces used on 1947-52 cars, and was sort of surprised that I couldn't find any resources on refurbishing those, as it seems like the majority of cars from those years are in need of assistance to return the instruments to as-left-the-factory functionality- that is, being able to glow with 2cp incandescent bulbs behind Wood's glass filters. I'm wondering if there's any real call for such a service, or if there is someone already doing this?

I'm guessing the best method for applying what I presume is zinc sulphide doped paint is probably to make stencils and apply it, rather than use decals. So, how many different gauge faces were used between Champion and Commander during these years? Also, I believe Radio Roy told me that they used the same paint on radio dial scales, but without the purple filters. So, how many different radios (with non-similar dial scales) were offered in that same timeframe?

I know the topic comes up somewhat frequently, and I've even threatened to investigate options previously... so what say you?

[8E45E]

Just how far do you want to break it down? Only the differences between the Champion and Commander/Land Cruiser dashes? Or do you want to go all the way and note the differences between each trim level? For example, while the 1950 Champion had a similar dash layout, and instruments, the Custom never had the same amount of chrome trim the Deluxe had, etc.

Craig

[kurtruk]

Probably want to know how many different gauge faces for the purposes of his potential project.

[Lark Hunter]

Yep. Just how many different gauges were used- It looks like 1947-49 Champion and Commander/Land Cruiser all used the same instruments mounted in a slightly different panel, then went different directions for 1950-52. Also wondering if they used the same glow-in-the-dark paint in the clock blanking plugs that were assembled behind glass like a regular gauge.

[Dwain G.]

If you do manage to get this project rolling you can probably expand into the 1949-51 Ford market also.

[Champ51]

Could you get some luminescent paint put into an inkjet cartridge for a test?

And don't forget, we need the needle pointers done also.

[Lark Hunter]

Could you get some luminescent paint put into an inkjet cartridge for a test?

And don't forget, we need the needle pointers done also.

That's kind of the direction I'm looking. Gauge needles should be quite easy, though odometers might be a bit more challenging.

[Lark Hunter]

If you do manage to get this project rolling you can probably expand into the 1949-51 Ford market also.

I've been looking at their forums, and it seems as if most members are at a loss as to what to do, too. From what I gathered, the 1951's went back to conventional illumination. Also, it sounds like some Lincolns of the same era had this setup; I don't know about Mercury.

[RadioRoy]

And don't forget, we need the needle pointers done also.

Be careful with the needles. When I did my 51 Champion some 45 years ago, the only paint available was heavy and thick. It threw the needle out of balance. Now it stays towards the bottom until the car goes faster, then the needle jumps up and hangs around the vertical position for a while. It's wildly inaccurate. The balance is off because of too much weight at the tip.