If you love your vehicle but want the benefits of modern technology, digital dashboards for older cars are an exciting upgrade. They combine classic style with modern functionality, giving you better data, cleaner visuals, and far more customization than factory gauge clusters ever offered. At Reversion Raceworks, this idea is not just theory. It is something we actively live out through hands-on builds and detailed video content that walks viewers through the entire process step by step.

One of the best examples is our shop car video series following the improvement of a 1999 Suburban 2500. This project perfectly represents what many enthusiasts want to do with their own older trucks and SUVs. Keep the reliability and character of a proven platform while upgrading the driving experience with modern components like a Holley Digital Dash. Through these videos, we show not only what parts to use, but how to install, wire, configure, and customize them in a way that feels approachable for both DIY builders and professional shops.

Why Digital Dashboards Make Sense for Older Vehicles

Factory gauge clusters in older cars were designed for a different era. They did their job well, but they are limited by analog technology, aging electronics, and fixed layouts. Digital dashboards for older cars change all of that. They allow you to display far more information in one place, often with better accuracy and clarity. Things like GPS based speed readings, customizable warning thresholds, and clean modern visuals all become possible.

For vehicles like OBS Chevy trucks and full size SUVs such as the 1999 Suburban 2500, digital dashboards can be a perfect fit. These platforms are still widely used, easy to work on, and often serve as daily drivers, tow rigs, or adventure vehicles. A modern dash upgrade helps bring them into the present without sacrificing what made them great to begin with.

Our goal is not to make an older vehicle feel out of place or overly futuristic. Instead, we aim for an OEM plus look that feels intentional and well integrated. The shop car videos are designed to show exactly how to achieve that result.

Inside the 1999 Suburban 2500 Shop Car Series

The Reversion Raceworks shop car series follows the Suburban build as it evolves piece by piece. One of the standout upgrades in the series is the installation of a Holley Pro Dash, specifically covering both the 6.86 inch and the larger 12.3 inch versions. The videos demonstrate how easy it is to move from the factory gauge cluster to a fully digital display using direct fit bracketry designed by Reversion Raceworks.

The process begins with removing the original cluster and test fitting both digital dash options. Viewers get a clear visual comparison between the two screen sizes, helping them decide which one best fits their own goals. The 6.86 inch dash offers a compact and clean solution, while the 12.3 inch dash fills more of the factory opening for a bold and immersive display.

One detail that stands out in the videos is the emphasis on protecting your investment. We demonstrate the use of our Dash Defense screen protector, explaining why it improves the driving experience and helps keep the display looking new. The installation process is shown step by step, including cleaning the screen, applying the protector carefully, and using provided tools to eliminate bubbles.

Wiring the Holley Pro Dash the Right Way

Wiring is often the most intimidating part of any digital dash install, especially when working with an older factory harness. The shop car videos take a lot of the fear out of this step by clearly explaining how the Holley Pro Dash integrates with the factory wiring.

In the Suburban build, the original connector is modified slightly so that factory signals can be routed into the Holley dash. We show how existing wires can be reused, especially when pin styles match, making the process simpler than many people expect. One major advantage highlighted in the videos is that both the 6.86 inch and 12.3 inch Holley Pro Dash use the same basic wiring and connector. This means upgrading later does not require redoing the wiring work.

Customizing the Holley Digital Dash for an OEM Plus Look

One of the most impressive parts of the shop car videos is the deep dive into Holley Pro Dash customization. Out of the box, these dashes come with several preconfigured layouts that already look great. However, Reversion Raceworks goes further by showing how to create a fully custom layout that closely mimics the original factory gauge cluster.

The video explains how to select the number of layouts, choose a default startup screen, and adjust brightness settings. From there, it dives into the customization menu where gauges, labels, and switches can be added anywhere on the screen. Viewers learn how to select channels, work with local IO, and combine factory signals with Holley specific data like GPS speed.

The customization walkthrough covers everything from resizing gauges and adjusting sweep angles to setting realistic speed and RPM ranges. These small details make a huge difference in readability and visual appeal. We explain how trial and error plays a role in achieving the right look, emphasizing that there is no single correct setup, only what looks and feels right for your vehicle.

Using Symbols and Warnings for a Factory Inspired Experience

Another standout section of the video focuses on using symbols instead of text for indicators like turn signals, fuel warnings, ABS, and battery alerts. This approach helps replicate the feel of an original gauge cluster while still benefiting from digital flexibility.

The video explains how to configure warning colors, transparency, and behavior so that indicators remain subtle until they are needed. For example, turn signal arrows can remain invisible until activated, then flash in green just like an OEM setup. This level of control allows builders to avoid clutter and maintain a clean dash layout.

Final Touches and Practical Installation Tips

Toward the end of the install, the video addresses smaller but important details such as setting the odometer to match the vehicle’s original mileage. This step is often overlooked but is crucial for maintaining accurate records and resale value.

The installation of the 12.3 inch dash also includes a discussion about USB clearance and practical solutions like notching for cable access or using angled connectors. These real world tips are exactly what makes these videos so valuable. They show not just ideal scenarios, but the little challenges you may run into along the way and how to solve them.

If you are interested in digital dashboards for older cars, these videos are an excellent place to start. They show what is possible, explain how to do it correctly, and inspire confidence in tackling your own build. From choosing the right Holley Pro Dash to dialing in a layout that feels factory correct, you can follow us every step of the way.

For anyone who appreciates thoughtful upgrades and well documented builds, checking out our Reversion Raceworks shop car videos is time well spent.