DannyK

I posted this last year when I was new to the board. But since recently adding the GLC/323 sections and re-doing the forum layout, I figured it was worth re-posting in GLC/323 forum where it mainly applies. It is also a universal custom application and could apply to many different models so it's worth leaving the original topic where it was.....

They don`t make pillar pods for the 86-89 323 as well as many Protege's. Wanted pillar gauges and knew that one of the models from various years would fit but didn`t want to to spend the time or money gambling. And I never came across a topic where somebody found one that fit nicely.

Being into muscle cars for almost 2 decades and just starting to enjoy the pocket rockets, I ended up using one of my Buick resources. Turbo Regals are very popular and owning 2 T-types myself, I know off hand the great amount of stuff available for them.

1981-87 Cutlass / Regal center consoles are all the same. So Kirban (a hardcore Turbo Regal lover & great parts supplier) came up with the idea to use that open square section in the GM G-Body console for a dual gauge pod holder. Looks & works great! They just came out with a new design that mounts on the RF corner of the power moonroof, very cool.

Anyways, I used that console pod on my 323 dash. Fit beautiful. It is the same width as the clock area. It`s too long in the rear, so you have to trim it to fit the depth of the dash surface. And if you take your time you can have it fit into the clock area. (basicly the outer edge of the pod will be at the dashpad, and then taper into the center area extending farther back)

Only thing is if you have a clock in yours, you would have to eliminate it and get a factory block-off plate. Many didn`t have clocks, and those plates are easy to find. And you can always put a clock somewhere else or use the one on your radio.

Pod Shot 1

I think it is an excellect location for 2 gauges and turned out great. No destruction to anything and the wires are all hidden because they run out of the pod into the plate. And when you lock the plate into place it holds it in tight. So there is no drilling into your dash and it never moves or slides anywhere.

Because of the angle, above your head mounting would also be possible if you had some sort of overhead console. With it`s basic shape you can do lots with that pod, and can be used in all kinds of areas in many different cars. In my opinion it is a very universal piece that can be mounted several different ways.

Here is the picture from the on-line catalog:

Pod Shot 2

Best part about it is the price....... only $25.

I`ve seen dual gauge pillar pods for the cars sell as high as $75!!! Give me a break. For a piece of plactic? LOL....... what a rip-off.

You can find this and other useful items at www.KirbanPerformance.com ..... awesome Turbo Buick parts supplier.

Final note on the pillar pods........ The ideal way would be if somebody worked at a performance supplier where they have most piller pods in stock. Then he or she could keep trying different ones untill they came across one that matched up well. But untill then.............

Big Mike

Presuming you have a BF hatch like the GTX <or any car with the same rake and design A pillar a 95-98ish <somethin like that> Acura Integra pod will fit with minor modification...I have one in my 88 GTX.

B6TFestiva

The Festiva and the BF 323's use the same type of A-pillar trim. They aren't the same length or angle, but the side profile is the exact same. Guess what else has the same type of A-pillar trim? The first gen Miata! Autometer makes an A-pillar (dual and single) pod for the Miata. I test fit the single pod on my car and it was a perfect fit.

BF 323 A-pillar gauge pod = first gen Miata Autometer single or dual pod