Gauge Cluster Trim - Aluminum - Dodge Challenger Forum: Challenger & SRT8 Forums

MassHEMI · #1 (**permalink**) 08-11-2012, 12:13 PM

Anyone try the Remin (or another brand) gauge cluster trim kit in brushed aluminum (SBA)? Any closeup pics to see if it's molded well? I'm trying to find something that matches the brushed aluminum around the shifter bezel and 6MT knob.

Thanks,
Scott

BrUiRcNeR · #2 (**permalink**) 08-14-2012, 11:18 AM

My wife bought me the Remin RBA (Real Brushed Alum) kit and I was supremely disappointed with it. I didn't get the gauge surround, but the NAV/Climate Control Surround didn't fit properly, didn't cover the entire factory plate, had crooked cuts around the knob cutout, and the two-piece design was poorly executed. One side is aligned well, but the other is crooked. I'm currently working with CARiD to rectify the situation. The simulated brushed aluminum (SBA) may fit/look better as it's molded vinyl, but I'm not impressed overall, and REMIN's response was to paint the factory surround so the gaps didn't show as bad....

Pics:

IDMTfirefighter · #3 (**permalink**) 08-14-2012, 11:37 AM

wow...that looks amauter...hope it didn't set you back allot

Gator Brah · #4 (**permalink**) 08-14-2012, 12:03 PM

Wow that looks very poorly made.
OP look into a hydro dipping kit. Its around $100 and will cover your existing trim. They have the brushed aluminum kit available

the727kid · #5 (**permalink**) 08-14-2012, 01:23 PM

Looks like crap, but the I really like the idea of the brushed aluminum against the carbon fiber by the controls.

BrUiRcNeR · #6 (**permalink**) 08-14-2012, 01:49 PM

Originally Posted by IDMTfirefighter

wow...that looks amauter...hope it didn't set you back allot

I was skeptical in the beginning, but really wanted to spruce up the console area. After getting these parts on, and seeing the skewed fit, I stopped immediately, took photos, and reported the issue to CARiD. It was around $160 for the basic kit, but I wasn't about to install any other parts of the kit until this was cleared up. Parts that fit in more recessed areas might look better, but for the price, fit should not be this bad. Look across the bottom, it doesn't even cover the factory surround. The pictures don't really show how bad the edges are either. I'm certain the vinyl based kits have nicer, beveled/molded edges, but the edges of the Aluminum (and I'm sure other 'real' materials) are rough.
These are no longer installed on my car, and although getting them off was a pain, I couldn't just leave it like that. If it was my fault installing it, I'd take the hit, but you can clearly see how some edges are perfectly aligned, but others are not. I'm not sure what cutting tools they use, parts were all covered in tape to protect the finish while cutting, but the edges of all parts were 'scorched'........fine if it was a laser, not good if it was a precision blade........the edges are obviously crooked and rough to the touch.

Lesson learned.............I'll paint the parts myself before trying another dash kit.

Toxic11 · #7 (**permalink**) 08-14-2012, 08:32 PM

Hell a water jet would have way better cuts than that. I'd be pretty ticked! If the parts fit right, it would look fantastic though!

MassHEMI · #8 (**permalink**) 08-15-2012, 03:40 AM

Thanks for the info, Randy. That's what I was afraid of, edges showing. Such a shame.

I like the subtle color of the OE carbon fiber center console with hints or chrome and brushed aluminum, and want to focus on the instrument cluster, A/C vents, overhead console and steering wheel trim. Maybe I'll try painting the steering wheel trim a "flat graphite" and see how it looks. Maybe paint some masking tape and move it around to test the look.

BrUiRcNeR · #9 (**permalink**) 08-15-2012, 06:04 PM

Glad to help, wouldn't want anyone to get stuck like I did (so far).

If you want to see what it would look like, stop by a local sign shop and have them sell you a couple 1'x2' sheets of vinyl in colors or patterns you like. I'm sure they have a brushed AL look, other 'metal' finishes, as well as every color under the sun. A steady hand and an Xacto knife should be all you need. I'm thinking about trying this myself and will post pictures when I get a chance.

Gator Brah · #10 (**permalink**) 08-15-2012, 06:47 PM

Originally Posted by BrUiRcNeR

Glad to help, wouldn't want anyone to get stuck like I did (so far).

If you want to see what it would look like, stop by a local sign shop and have them sell you a couple 1'x2' sheets of vinyl in colors or patterns you like. I'm sure they have a brushed AL look, other 'metal' finishes, as well as every color under the sun. A steady hand and an Xacto knife should be all you need. I'm thinking about trying this myself and will post pictures when I get a chance.

I did this with carbon fiber vinyl. Looks great and pretty easy to do