How to Convert Your 1970-72 Chevelle SS Dash — A Complete Guide

Thinking about converting your 1970-72 Chevelle into an SS-style dash setup? You're not alone. The 1970-72 Chevelle SS is one of the most iconic American muscle cars of all time — and one of the most common upgrades for base models is swapping in the high-performance SS-style dash. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to tackle a 1970-72 Chevelle SS dash conversion like a pro.

🔧 Why Convert to an SS Dash?

The SS (Super Sport) dash is more than just good looks — it features:

• Round factory-style gauges (vs sweep-style)
• Improved visibility
• Cleaner performance look
• Higher resale value

It’s the dash that says, “this car means business.”

🛠️ What You’ll Need

To complete the conversion, you’ll need:

• Round gauge dash bezel
• Instrument cluster (SS-style, either original or aftermarket)
• Printed circuit board
• Dash harness (specifically for round gauge layout)
• Ash tray
• SS dash lens
• SS steering column cover

At Super Muscle Parts, we stock reproduction SS dash harnesses, bezels, and high-quality conversion parts built to OEM specs.

🔌 Electrical Considerations

⚠️ The biggest difference between sweep-style and SS-style dash is wiring. That’s why the dash harness must match the round-gauge setup.

Key Tips:

• Use a 1970-72 Chevelle SS dash harness — don’t modify a sweep-style one
• Match the circuit board to your gauge type (idiot lights vs full gauge)
• Confirm connector orientation for plug-and-play compatibility

Our American Autowire SS dash harnesses are color-coded and plug directly into factory components — no guesswork, no wire cutting.

🧰 Install Steps (Simplified)

1. Disconnect battery
2. Remove lower dash panel
3. Label and remove existing harness and cluster
4. Install new SS-style dash harness
5. Install round-gauge instrument cluster
6. Reconnect battery and test
7. Reinstall dash and trim pieces

Total time: ~3–5 hours with hand tools.

⚙️ Pro Tips from Restoration Experts

• Use dielectric grease on all connectors for better conductivity
• Clean all grounds during install
• Test gauges before final panel install
• Pair this with a console conversion if you’re going full SS

🔍 Final Thoughts

A 1970-72 Chevelle SS dash conversion is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make to your interior. Whether you're restoring for originality or customizing for performance, upgrading your dash is a visual and functional game-changer.

Need parts to get started?

• SS Dash Bezel
• SS Dash Lens
• SS Ash Tray
• SS Steering Column cover
• OE SS Gauge Cluster
• Dakota Digital Gauges

Or call us at 916.638.3906 — we're happy to help with your next restoration project.