I've started to take a look at the Russ Thompson turn signal and the blank dash panel. Due to some changes in the MK4 frame where the steering shaft bearing is attached, Russ now includes a separate bracket that everything is bolted to and I have to drill 3 holes in the frame bracket to get it all mounted. Before I start drilling holes or opening up the hole in the dash, I thought I would get some more eyes on it and ask for opinions.
I see that I am going to have to open up the hole in the dash, but any guidance as to the best place to cut and what shape? Also, when I align the panel on the hoop do I pretty much want to center the piece on the frame or center it around the steering shaft in the hole? I clamped it in the center of the hoop above the trans tunnel and if I align it so that the edge of the panel is flush with the top of the hoop in the middle, it seems the ends are about 1/2" above the hoop. Is this the way it should be placed or is there a better suggestion?
This shows the new bracket in about the area where I need to drill and mount it. I am going to place some washers under the front holes so that it will not pull down on the shaft and cause binding.
It is not perfectly centered in the hole, but the dash is pretty much centered on the frame. There is a little left/right play available and I could probably scoot the steering shaft over to the left enough to center it in the hole in this position - just need to make sure I can still drill all 3 holes through the bracket.
It's pretty much flush with the hoop in the center
But about 1/2" above the hoop on each end.
This is a shot from the top that shows the steering shaft definitely has a slant towards the PS. Is this normal? I could probably slide it over a bit more towards the DS but that would probably require I drill another hole in the bracket as the rear hole on the DS would be off the bracket.