Installation Instructions: A-Pillar Gauge Mount
Product: A-Pillar Gauge Mount for Banks iDash
Compatibility: 2019–2026 GMC Sierra & Chevrolet Silverado (1500, 2500, 3500)
⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING ENSURE YOUR VEHICLE’S BATTERY HAS BEEN DISCONNECTED PRIOR TO INSTALLATION. If your vehicle is equipped with an auxiliary battery, you must disconnect it at this time as well. This prevents accidental airbag deployment and electrical shorts while working near the A-pillar.
Tools Required
• 10mm socket or wrench (for battery and pillar bolts)
• Hand-tools ONLY for mounting (Do not use impact drivers)
• Small flat-head screwdriver or plastic trim prying tool
• Drill with a 1/2" drill bit (or Step Bit)
• Zip ties (for cable management)
Step 1: Battery Disconnection
1. Open the hood and disconnect the negative (black) terminal of the primary battery.
2. If equipped with a secondary battery, disconnect its negative terminal as well.
3. Wait 2–3 minutes for the SRS (airbag) system to fully discharge before proceeding.
Step 2: Remove the Factory A-Pillar Cover
1. Locate the two plastic bolt covers on the factory A-pillar grab handle.
2. Carefully pop these covers open using a plastic trim tool.
3. Unfasten the 10mm bolts found behind the covers.
4. Gently pull the factory pillar trim away from the frame to release the metal retaining clips and remove the piece from the truck.
Step 3: Drill Cable Pass-Through Hole
1. Place the factory pillar trim on a stable workbench with the Grab Handle facing toward your body.
2. Locate the recessed circular cavity on the trim (reference photo below for example).
3. Using a 1/2" drill bit, carefully drill a hole in the center of this cavity. This will be the routing point for your iDash cable.
(Image displays the correct drilling results)
Step 4: Route the iDash cable
1. Plug the Banks OBD-II cable into the vehicle’s OBD-II port.
2. Route the cable up through the side of the dashboard.
3. Feed the cable up the A-pillar, ensuring it is secured behind the side curtain airbag so it does not interfere with deployment.
Step 5: Mount the iDash and Pillar
1. Cable Feed: Before placing the factory A-pillar trim back in the vehicle, feed the iDash connector through the 1/2" hole you drilled in Step 3.
2. Trim Install: Align the factory A-pillar trim with the mounting points on the vehicle frame. Press firmly until the clips engage.
3. Mount Attachment: Take your new A-Pillar Mount and align it with the bottom cutout (where the factory covers were removed). Gently press it into place; the mount should "click" into place with the existing grab handle clip.
4. Secure Bolts: Re-insert the 10mm bolt into the top factory hole. Insert the second 10mm bolt into the corresponding hole on the new A-Pillar Mount (this lines up with the bottom factory hole).
CRITICAL: Use hand tools only. Hand-tighten until snug to avoid over-tightening or potentially breaking the mount.
5. Gauge Connection: Gently pull your iDash connector cable through the A-Pillar Mount arm and connect it to your iDash gauge.
6. Alignment: Insert your Banks iDash gauge halfway into the mount. Adjust the alignment to your preference.
7. Final Seating: Once satisfied with the angle, press the iDash gauge all the way into the mount until seated.
8. Finishing Touch: Take your Bolt Hole Cover and press fit it into the hole on the top of the A-Pillar Mount to cover the 10mm bolt hole.
Step 6: Reconnect Power & Test
1. Reconnect the negative terminal(s) to your battery/batteries.
2. Turn the ignition to 'On' to verify the iDash powers up.
3. Ensure all trim is flush and the assembly is secure.
Disclaimer: Professional installation is recommended. Chonch and Lonja LLC is not responsible for damage to the vehicle or injuries resulting from improper installation.