Can a '57 dash fit in a '55?

[sjbonadonna]

I have a 55 TBird with some not working gauges and an opportunity to purchase a full 57 padded dash with the instrument cluster. Will it fit without any major alterations?

[Jeff-55]

I've never tried anything like that, but the '57 is wider that the '55. So. probably not.
Overall width 1955 - 70.2, 1957 - 72.8

[55blacktie]

Troubleshoot, repair/replace the 55 gauges. Even if you could install the 57 dash in your 55, you'll have a lot of people scratching their heads.

[sjbonadonna]

The gauges would cost me as much or more as the dash and I like the 57 gauge cluster better.

[55blacktie]

You can expect more costly repairs in the future.

[Joe Johnston]

I think all 3 years use the same windshield and the trim, so in that respect, I would say it would fit. The outer ends where the dash meets the doors may be the issue. If it is priced reasonably and close to you, get it, place on the seat and start measuring. It may appear very obvious it will or won't work. If not, you tried and you can sell the dash to recover your expenses. Give it a go - sounds like a good project to me.

[mojerry]

I have seen a 56, with a 57 dash. It looked like it came from the factory.
A 55, would need a 12 volt upgrade, to run the gauges.
After seeing the 56, I wanted to convert my 56, to a 57 dash.

[55blacktie]

1955 has 6v gauges. 1956 has 12v gauges. 1957 went back to 6v gauges but used an instrument voltage regulator.

vintage Thunderbird club.net/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?t=14492

[paul2748]

Every has their favorites - to me the 56 dash is a lot better looking that the 57. I like the large dial tach and clock and the astro speedometer.

[55blacktie]

Me too!

[55blacktie]

I would rather see that 57 dash go to an owner of a 57 who needs a dash.