Chrome Radio Console for a 1978

[tartan18]

I need to find out what the center control (switch) is in a 1978 or 1979 chrome radio console cover with five holes. I know that the two outside holes are for the wiper switch and the other one is for the dash dimmer. I also know that the two rectangle holes are for the hazard and brake warning lamps. What I don't know is what goes in the larger center hole. If you have a picture of your console that would be great -- or just a description would help. Thanks!

[aj81spider]

Not my car, but a reference picture of a 1979 dash I happen to have around - it appears to be the hazard switch:

[124JOE]

i think it was a SLOW DOWN light

[tartan18]

Thanks A.J. -- that is exactly the information I needed. And thanks Joe .. but my light reads "Speed Up in the Twisties."

[124JOE]

i dont have one
but i gave it a chance

[DocGraphics]

Here's a pic of my 78, five holes but not all in a row down the center

[manoa matt]

IIRC the 1979 was the only year that has the round emergency flasher in the top center console, by 1980 they moved it down to where the 78 and earlier cars had it in the wood plate below the radio between the cig lighter and courtsey light. I could be wrong.

[tartan18]

Because the PO changed out the dash I now know it needs a center console for a 1979. That clears up the mystery. Thanks a lot gentlemen. I've ordered the replacement console.

[manoa matt]

What is it that you have (post a picture), and what do you need?

The 78 will not have the wiring for the round hazard switch, so you will need to buy an expensive switch just to fill the hole, but it will still be just decorative, and you will have two hazard switches.

I might have the metal backing plate from an earlier dash that can be switched out so you retain the original look of the 78 dash. I should also have both early and later styles of the decorative center chrome plates too.

[tartan18]

Thanks for all the help. I have decided to go with a black, five hole center console. In addition to the wiper and dimmer switches which will be on the outboard positions the three remaining rectangular slots will be for the hazard light, emergency brake light and I will add the seat belt light. My plan is to create a small lighting delay device that will illuminate the seat belt light for about 10 seconds. Radio Shack carries the electronic parts I will need.

[manoa matt]

Unless it was removed by a previous owner, you should already have the delay switch that keeps the seat belt and brake dash lights on for a few seconds. Check the wiring diagram for the delay switch and find where it is. It should be up under the dash somewhere.