Cluster Needles - Potential Upgrade

[NM07]

Hi all,

In my journey so far to make the cluster in my B7 a little more modern, I've replaced the gauge fascia with the newer one in the Exeo, which made a really good difference. I've always wanted to replace the needles in the cluster as they look very basic compared to the more modern Audi needles which have metal trim on them.

Well after doing some digging, I found the A6 C6 (same generation as our B7) had a cluster facelift during its production run. The earlier clusters were very similar to the B7, same needles, same rough layout, same screen design:

The facelift version however got nice fresh needles with metal trim:

Given the original version shared the B7 needles, I heavily suspect the facelift version needles are a drop in replacement. I've ordered a cluster off eBay with the facelift needles and will be doing some experimenting next week.

I did a quick Photoshop to see what it would look like on my B7 cluster on the rev counter and speedo needles (apologies for poor quality, was a quick job!)

Huge improvement in my opinion, gives the needles a nice centre point rather than just the red sections floating without a base like it is stock.

Once I receive the A6 cluster and rip it apart to compare, I'll post findings!

 

[Charlie Farley]

Great plan chap and does freshen up the dash a lot.

 

[Charlie Farley]

Just on a side note but dash related, how does one remove the clear plastic dash cover .
Mine has a fair bit of dust inside which is starting to build up a bit.

cheers
rob

 

[NM07]

Both my B7's did too Rob, it seems the clusters aren't very well sealed from factory and always accumulate dust. Drove me mad so had to sort it.

There was a good video on how to disassemble, let me find it for you chap.

 

[NM07]

AudiWorld Tech Articles

AudiWorld was created to maintain the most comprehensive collection of Audi information anywhere in the world. Site includes Forum, Tech, Polls, Gallery, and more!

www.audiworld.com

There you go Rob, it's for a B6 cluster but steps are identical. Only thing that changed from B6 -> B7 cluster was the needles, and a few of the warning symbols had a different design.

 

[NM07]

While you've got the plastic cover off, give it a polish too, makes a difference

Something like Dodo Juice Lime Prime of Meguiars PlastRX would be ideal, nothing too abrasive as the acrylic is very soft.

Meguiar's Plast-RX | Halfords UK

Shop the latest Removes fine scratches & oxidation. at Halfords UK

www.halfords.com

 

[NM07]

And once you've got it open, might as well replace the fascia with the Exeo one Rob and do the needles too

 

[Charlie Farley]

I'll add all that to the never-ending list .

thanks for the info link.

 

[NM07]

Back on the mods again I take it Rob

 

[Charlie Farley]

Indeedy, and yes I know I said I wasn't doing anymore but I just could not help myself and gave into it..lol

 

[Charlie Farley]

Any updates on this needle swap chap.

 

[tr7]

I really really really like the idea of this. It touches all the right spots in my upgrade and OEM+ affliction lol

But I just can't come to live with the font in the cluster

If I could have the S4 cluster without the S4 logo I'd be very happy

 

[NM07]

Update on this chaps, unfortunately the needle stems from the A6 (the bit that slots onto the stepper motor) is much shorter, and of a different design to the B7, so this project is a non starter. A real shame as it would have been a lovely upgrade.

 

[NM07]

I really really really like the idea of this. It touches all the right spots in my upgrade and OEM+ affliction lol

But I just can't come to live with the font in the cluster

If I could have the S4 cluster without the S4 logo I'd be very happy

Agreed, an S4 cluster fascia in diesel form without the S4 badge would be perfect for me.

I do prefer my Exeo fascia over the standard B7 one however, the font is an almost perfect match for what Audi uses now in their digital displays:

 

[tr7]

Oh I understand the thought behind it. And honestly it's one of the most unique mods/upgrades I've ever saw done in this B7 forum so all credit to you

I have an S4 cluster here and would just love it without a logo or at least the DTM logo in it's place