S13 A-pillar...same on coupe/hatch/convertible?

[SHIFT_*grind*]

Wasn't sure whether or not this should go in Tech Talk, or Chat (since it's not that technical), but does anyone know if the a-pillar is different between the coupe/hatch, and the convertible? I bought a single a-pillar gauge pod from one of those Ebay companies, simple black plastic, and it doesn't fit on my 'vert. Doesn't lay flat to the pillar.

I thought they just sent me the wrong part until I saw a picture of someone's S13 coupe on here, with gauges on the a-pillar, and where the pod met the pillar, it looked to be the same shape as the one they shipped me. So I'm wondering, if I order another one (possibly from a different company), whether or not I'm just gonna end up with something else that doesn't fit :(

[MavericStephenc]

yes cept vert me thinks, where did you order it from?

[SHIFT_*grind*]

One of those Ebay ricer companies, GlowShift I think. Didn't much care because I didn't think they could screw up a piece of black plastic :(

Are you saying you think the 'vert is different?

[DOOK]

my gauge pod isn't the same shape as the a pillar trim, I just made it work. if you're any good with fiberglass you can fiberglass over it all and smooth and paint it, just do the same to your passenger side but without the pod.

[MavericStephenc]

yes, although i have never compared side by side, but in any case I would recomend autometer if you plan to get another one 25$

[SHIFT_*grind*]

I've never worked with fiberglass. I trimmed down the sides of the pod a little and it lays a little flatter, but it'll still look bad if I actually mount it.

Maybe I'll try an Autometer. Thanks :)


edit: Autometer only has one part number for the S13...

[MavericStephenc]

call up cip motorsports and ask Jeff he should know cause they sell' em'

EDIT: they should fit fine. it does not replace the whole pillar

[SHIFT_*grind*]

I just found some info saying that the 'vert A-pillars are flatter than the coupe/hatch. And looking more closely at some interior pictures, I'd say that's probably correct. :(

CIP eh?

[MavericStephenc]

yea, jeff and andrew are awesome. never dealt with matt, but the service is quick and their customer support is awesome

[projectRDM]

That's correct. The convertible Apillar trim doesn't bow out to clear the power seatbelt mechanism, since it doesn't exist. It's basically the same pillar as a UK/JDM piece, but cut off short at the top. The contour is completely different. You may find an S14 pod would work better, or maybe find someone who has one to test fit at least.

[SHIFT_*grind*]

Ahhhh, yeah, the auto seatbelt, I don't know why I didn't think of that as being different :(