removing guages

i would like to remove the guages from my '68 911L for cleaning and clock/seal replacement. i know that they do not "pop" out like the ones on a '70 911. are they threaded or do i have to pry them from the dash using a modified(bent) philips and side-to-side action? also, i am considering repainting the metal dash. should i use mat, semi-gloss, satin blk? what brand? tia.

Bob:

Not sure why no one else has answered your question; I hesitated, since I have had only 1974 and now a 1983 911.

Anyway, I think all 911 have had rubber surrounds holding in their instruments. All you normally have to do it to grasp the largest instrument, usually the tach or the speedo, and gently rock it back and forth as you are pulling on it, as if to pull it out of the dash. These are friction fits with three-groove rubber-surrounds, and you have to be somewhat firm in your rocking and pulling.

They will come out this way easily, but be careful as you near their "Out" position, for they have wires attached, and you won't want to rip these off.

Start with the largest ones first, since your hands/fingers can grasp them more easily for leverage.

As to the dash, I believe that the dash was painted at the same time the outside was painted, and thus it should be shiny. At least this is what I remember from my factory visit. But this is a matter of personal preference, and your attitude about "originality". Perhaps painting it shiny would also allow you to wax it for preservation and cleanliness....Andras