If you’re into classic rides, you know the 1940 Ford dashboard has its own legendary status. It’s a favorite among street rod builders, and for good reason. This kit doesn’t just look good; it’s got a chrome-plated, machined bezel that really stands out. But what’s even cooler is the TFT message center that fits perfectly into the stock dash opening of 1940 cars and even the 1940-47 Ford pickups. Dakota Digital really nailed it with their RTX series, blending that classic OEM vibe with modern features that we all crave.

At first glance, you might think this is just another stock setup. But flip the switch, and the LED backlighting lights up in your chosen color scheme, and you’ll quickly realize this is something special. The housings are CNC machined and packed with electronics that Dakota Digital designs in-house. They’ve truly raised the bar for aftermarket instrumentation.

Now, let’s talk about what this bad boy can do. The high-definition TFT message center is fully customizable. You can display pretty much any info you need while cruising. And, as you’d expect from Dakota Digital, installation is a breeze thanks to the central control box that makes setup straightforward. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Speedometer: It covers a range from 0 to 160 MPH, with an optional metric version that goes up to 255 km/h.
• Tachometer: You’ll get a clear read from 0 to 8,000 RPM.
• Oil Pressure: Monitors from 0 to 80 psi.
• Water Temperature: Ranges from 100 to 260°F, or 40 to 120°C if you prefer metric.
• Fuel Level: Easy-to-read indicators from E to F.
• Voltmeter: Displays from 9 to 17 VDC.

But it doesn’t stop there. You’ve got your odometer, a dual trip meter, and a clock to keep you on schedule. Performance metrics are also included, like a 0-60 MPH timer and quarter-mile stats, which are perfect if you’re looking to test your ride’s limits.

Indicators are well thought out too—turn signals, high beam, check engine, and more. You can even set up two auxiliary input indicators with labels that you choose. Plus, each analog gauge has a red LED warning indicator, so you won't miss anything important.

When it comes to customization, you’re in control. With over 30 color options, you can tweak the needle, sweep, and digital display colors to match your style. And if you want to adjust brightness for day or night, it’s super easy through the HDX setup menu. For those who want a bit more control, you can add a rotary DIM-1 accessory for on-the-fly adjustments.

In terms of fitment, this system is designed specifically for the Chevrolet Corvette from 1963 to 1967. Just keep in mind that if you’re looking to get your hands on one, the expected arrival time is around 12-16 weeks.

In short, if you’re looking to upgrade your classic Ford or Corvette with a dash that looks original but performs like a modern marvel, this Dakota Digital RTX series is definitely worth considering.