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Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles

How to Paint the Speedometer Needle on a Classic Opel GT

Model: Vauxhall Opel Various
Part: Instrument cluster

In this video, we see how to paint the speedometer needle of a classic Opel GT. The paint mentioned in the video was not available, but we can recommend a quality product available on Amazon with the code B07ZKK3ZYB, which comes in various colours, so you can choose the one you like best. The price of the bottle is £19.99, with free delivery in one day for Prime customers. A soft-bristled fine-tipped brush is also essential, and work in a well-lit, clean, and dust-free environment. Disconnect the battery, remove the instrument cluster by unscrewing the screws from behind the steering wheel and extracting the "binocular". Carefully remove the glass covering the panel, then use small flat screwdrivers to gently pry at the base of the needle and remove it. It is possible to paint it in place, but it is less precise and quite risky. Clean the needle with isopropyl alcohol, sand it with damp 1000 grit paper (very gently), rinse and dry. Shake the paint well and apply a very thin and even first coat. Allow it to dry perfectly (at least 2 hours), then apply a second coat, let it dry, and then a third. Allow it to dry for 24 hours in a dust-free environment. To reattach the needle, the vehicle must be off, and you must act very gently. Restart the car to return all the needles to their position and gently push it into place on the spindle until it locks and points to zero. Reattach the glass, the cluster, and check that all the needles move freely.

Posted on 10 July 2026 by ScegliAuto

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