F40 Gauge cluster for your sim rig

Step 1: Understanding the Setup and Goals

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of building an analog gauge cluster for sim racing, inspired by the iconic Ferrari F40. The end goal? A set of analog gauges that syncs with your sim racing game, providing a realistic dashboard experience. I’ll share the steps to assemble this gauge cluster, plus tips and tricks to get the best results.

The purpose of this project is to create an analog gauge cluster that can be used with sim racing software, like SimHub. By connecting to SimHub, we can extract real-time data such as speed, RPM, and other telemetry from the game and feed it into our gauge cluster. This integration brings the experience closer to what you’d see in a real car, with physical dials that respond to in-game performance.

Step 2: Creating the Gauge Faces

For this project, we have two main gauges – a speedometer and a tachometer. They look similar but have different markings to reflect speed and RPM. The faceplates of these gauges are protected by a layer of clear acrylic, adding durability and a clean look while preventing dust from entering.

To achieve the look and feel of an authentic gauge, I experimented with several materials and methods for creating the faces. Initially, I considered printing on paper, but the backlighting caused paper fibers to become visible. Instead, I spray-painted clear acrylic and used a diode laser cutter to precisely etch out the numbers and markings. The laser burns off the paint without damaging the acrylic, resulting in a clear display area that lets light pass through perfectly.

Step 3: Backlighting with NeoPixels

Traditional dashboard lighting uses individual bulbs to illuminate the cluster. However, I opted to use NeoPixels, which are RGB LEDs that can display any color independently. This flexibility allows us to customize the lighting for each gauge, adding a modern, dynamic touch to the cluster.

Each gauge has a set of NeoPixels installed behind it, which we can control through SimHub or custom code. With this setup, we can match the gauge lighting to in-game conditions or set them to specific colors, adding a professional and immersive feel to the gauges.

Step 4: Assembly

After preparing the faces and lighting, it’s time to assemble the gauge components. The faceplate fits into a cone-shaped housing, which reflects the look of the Ferrari F40’s dashboard. Inside, I placed the gauge, securing it with a gasket. The housing also has specific cutouts to allow light from the NeoPixels to shine through effectively.

Each part of this assembly has been precisely cut using a laser cutter. The laser ensures that every piece fits perfectly, eliminating the need for extensive manual adjustments. This precision saves time and results in a clean, professional-looking build.

Step 5: Connecting to SimHub

Once everything is assembled, it’s time to connect the gauge cluster to SimHub. SimHub is a powerful tool that pulls telemetry data from your game and translates it into real-time motor movements, which drive our gauges. In a previous video, I detailed the setup of SimHub, so check that out for a comprehensive tutorial. Additionally, my website includes code examples and instructions for using SimHub with this project.

Final Thoughts

This project adds a new level of realism to sim racing setups. Not only does it look impressive, but it also creates a more immersive experience by bringing real-time data out of the screen and into physical gauges. If you’re looking for an affordable, DIY way to enhance your sim racing setup, building an analog gauge cluster like this is a rewarding challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, I hope this guide inspires you to give it a try. For more tips, tricks, and project updates, follow my blog and YouTube channel.