The classic 1957 Chevy, whether in its 150, 210 or Bel Air incarnations, just got a new restoration and modernization option with the release of Vintage Air’s 1957 Chevrolet Passenger Car Control Panel Replacement Kit.
The kit, which retails for $525, consists of a bolt-in control panel for the Gen IV and Gen 5 SureFit systems in the 1957 Chevy, combining classic style with modern tech to bring the climate control panel on the dash into the 21st century.
The control panel is designed to fit exactly onto the dash in place of the OEM lever panel, and comes with a wiring harness to connect it to the A/C system and all necessary mounting hardware. The design features easy-to-use rotary knobs and is triple chrome-plated for style. The lettering matches that used by Chevrolet in the Fifties for maximum aesthetics and authenticity.
From left to right, the knobs adjust fan speed, air delivery mode and temperature. The panel is illuminated by LEDs for nighttime use, while a blue LED indicator lights up when A/C is active. The panel is also designed to maximize available space behind the 1957 Chevy dash for modern climate control equipment, and is made from machined 6061-T6 billet aluminum.
The panel is designed to hook up to Vintage Air air conditioning systems, which bring modern climate control technology to restored 1957 Chevy cars. It is specifically compatible with SureFit Climate Control systems from the company, which Vintage Air describes as featuring “state-of-the-art, high-density aluminum heat exchangers” that “pack the maximum possible performance and reliability within the confines of your dash.”
The panel is designed for an easy installation that doesn’t require modifying the original 1957 Chevy dashboard. The kit comes with a three-year warranty from the manufacturer, and is produced in the United States.
In case you didn’t notice, the 1957 Chevy whose image graces the start of this article is just such a restored or restomodded Tri-Five for which Vintage Air makes its A/C systems and components like the Control Panel Replacement Kit. We’ve covered this 1,300-horsepower twin-turbo juggernaut before, complete with a video to inspire your own ’57 Chevy rebuilding adventures.
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Awesome!