1972 Chevelle SS Interior Restoration Knowledge Base

Key Features

• 6 analog gauge sweeps (tach, speedo, oil, water temp, fuel, volts)
• 2 TFT message center displays (configurable readouts)
• Capacitive touch buttons for menu/configuration
• 30+ backlight color options (configurable via buttons or Bluetooth app)
• Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone calibration/configuration
• Fully programmable via HDX Control Box

HDX Control Box Wiring

The Control Box is the brain of the system. Mount it behind the dash in a protected, accessible location.

HDX Sensor Connections

HDX Calibration

After installation, calibrate through the touch buttons or Bluetooth app:

1. Set cylinder count (8 for 396/454)
2. Calibrate speedometer (tire size, gear ratio, or GPS calibration)
3. Set fuel sender range (mark empty and full points)
4. Select backlight color
5. Configure message center displays (choose which readings to show)

HDX Troubleshooting

• Gauges don't power on: Check constant 12V (red wire), ground, and 5-20A fuse
• Gauges power but no readings: Check switched 12V (pink wire) and sensor connections
• Oil pressure reads zero: Verify 3-wire SEN-01-5 sender wiring (white/red/black)
• Speedo inaccurate: Recalibrate via GPS method or enter exact tire size/gear ratio
• Fuel gauge wrong: Recalibrate empty/full points through HDX menu
• Backlight flickers: Check dimmer wire connection and headlight switch rheostat

Installation Order (Critical)

Follow this sequence — skipping ahead causes rework:

1. Sound deadening / Dynamat (floor, firewall, doors, trunk)
2. Wiring harness routing (dash harness, engine harness, rear harness)
3. Dash metal support structure + dash assembly
4. Steering column and wheel
5. Headliner
6. Carpet and floor padding
7. Door panels
8. Console
9. Seats and seat belts
10. Rear panels, package tray, trim
11. Stereo and accessories
12. Final inspection and recommissioning

Dash Metal Support Structure

The dash assembly mounts to the firewall through a stamped steel dash support bracket (also called the dash carrier or dash frame). This is a critical structural piece.

Components

• Upper dash support bar: Spans the full width of the firewall, bolts at each end to the A-pillar area and to the firewall center. Typically 4-6 bolts, 5/16"-18 x 3/4" hex head with lock washers.
• Lower dash support brackets (left and right): L-shaped brackets that anchor the bottom of the dash assembly. Bolts to firewall with 5/16"-18 hardware.
• Center support brace: Vertical brace behind the radio/heater area, connects upper bar to the lower cowl.
• Steering column bracket: Integral to the dash support, holds the column clamp. Two 3/8"-16 bolts with lock washers.

Key Fasteners

• Dash support to firewall: 5/16"-18 x 3/4" Grade 5 hex bolts, lock washers, flat washers
• Column clamp bolts: 3/8"-16 x 1" Grade 5
• Dash pad to dash frame: 4 spring clips (2 long: 2-3/4" x 5/8", 2 short: 2-3/8" x 5/8")

Inspection Before Assembly

Before mounting anything, inspect the dash support for:

• Rust at firewall bolt holes (repair or reinforce if needed)
• Bent or tweaked brackets (straighten before installation)
• Missing or broken weld tabs
• Cracked steering column bracket area

Reference Files

For detailed screw-by-screw hardware specs for every interior component, read: references/hardware-specs.md

For connector identification, wire color codes, and harness routing: references/wiring-guide.md

For Dakota Digital HDX-70C-CVL gauge system installation, calibration, and troubleshooting: references/hdx-gauges.md

For the full checklist of fluid, brake, fuel, battery, and safety items for a car that sat 3 years: references/recommissioning.md

Key Suppliers

Community Resources

• Team Chevelle Forum: chevelles.com — The go-to forum for Chevelle-specific questions. Search before posting.
• 72 Chevelle Wiring Connection Pictures: chevelles.com/threads/72-chevelle-wiring-connection-pictures-and-diagrams.401618/ — Photographic guide to every connector
• ChevelleStuff.net: chevellestuff.net — Wiring diagrams, specs, and tech info

Important Notes

SS Dash Harness vs. Sweep Harness

The SS round-gauge dash harness is NOT interchangeable with the sweep-style gauge harness. The Hi-Tech kit includes the correct SS harness. Do not mix harnesses.

Year Differences (70 vs 71 vs 72)

While 1970-1972 Chevelles share the same A-body platform:

• 1970 and 1971 share most dash wiring, but differ from 1972
• 1972 moved to a different emissions/ignition setup affecting underhood wiring
• Bulkhead connectors vary by year and factory options
• Always verify part numbers against YOUR specific year

Torque Specifications (Key Values)

• Steering wheel nut: 35 ft-lbs
• Steering gear mounting bolts: 70 ft-lbs
• Seat track to floor bolts: 25-35 ft-lbs (5/16"-18)
• Seat belt anchor bolts: 30 ft-lbs (Grade 8 required)
• Steering column clamp: 20 ft-lbs
• Wheel lug nuts: 85-100 ft-lbs (star pattern)