Make your own C1 dash adapter

[87GNSteve]

For all those doing dash installations either aftermarket, home made, or from other car lines this will help keep cost down and create a reliable and factory looking connector.
I cannot take credit for this one, this was an old trick the guys at AVC did back in the 90's when they sold the GNX style dash.
A trip to the junkyard and some inexpensive terminals and you have a world class connector.
I am in the process of doing the 92 Buick Park Avenue dash conversion and like a lot of others money IS an object.
So here is what you need:

• C1 connector that matches the Turbo Regal, the regular NA regal has the same one so I would be safe to assume the other G body cars share. I got mine off of an 85 3.8 carbed car.
• About 20 metri pack 280 series male terminal connectors. I overpaid for mine at NAPA about 95 cents each; I saw 25 for $9 on eBay..
• Good quality crimper tool.
• Soldering gun and solder (optional)

1. Prepare the wires for the terminal ends. Strip the insulation off the end, crimp the connector, and I soldered also. These are the wires you want to connect to the Regal from your new dash..
2. Prepare the junkyard c1 connector by removing all the terminals from the connector. I used a tiny Allen wrench to release the tabs inserting the tool from the front, under the terminal prying gently while tugging on the wire it should release and pull right out the back.
3. Then take the wire ends the terminals were just installed on and, in the correct locations slide the terminals into the empty C1 connector from the back.
4. Trim the two tabs on each C1 connector at the ends where they will butt together. It is no big deal.... it is an 1/8 piece of plastic that I used a scissor to cut. Not cutting these will keep the connectors from mating.
5. Slide the "new C1 connector" into the cars C1 connector and zip tie together for extra stability and now you are done. Easily comes apart and easy to reconfigure wires if you need to add or delete.

 

[vader87]

Thanks! And great idea!!!!!