76 dash pad
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 133
Likes: 0
76 dash pad
I was trying to take out my dash pad (the top part of the dash, if anyone is confused) so I could pull the front dash area out and spray it.
Sadly, I pulled a little hard and now have a crack all down my dash pad.
Where can I find a new one? And how do you take it out/put it in without removing the windshield?
Sadly, I pulled a little hard and now have a crack all down my dash pad.
Where can I find a new one? And how do you take it out/put it in without removing the windshield?
Racer
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 260
Likes: 0
From: Wheaton Illinois
I just pulled the pad from my 76 out tonight. It took a little wiggling and twisting but I got it to clear the pillar with out really bending much at all.
Corvette America sells replacement pads for $369 or a dash shield that glues over the top of the damaged pad, for $119. I have never bought one so I can't tell how good they are.
Good luck and let us know if the replacements work well.
Corvette America sells replacement pads for $369 or a dash shield that glues over the top of the damaged pad, for $119. I have never bought one so I can't tell how good they are.
Good luck and let us know if the replacements work well.
Pro
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 663
Likes: 0
From: Honolulu Hawaii
I found it easier to remove the dash if you take the windshield pillar side trim off, more room to get dash out. I would recommend getting a new dash pad if affordable, I tried one of those "dash caps" and they are not worth the time and effort. poor fit and looks cheap.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 2,045
Likes: 4
From: Yorktown VA
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Originally Posted by c3 in hawaii
I found it easier to remove the dash if you take the windshield pillar side trim off, more room to get dash out. I would recommend getting a new dash pad if affordable, I tried one of those "dash caps" and they are not worth the time and effort. poor fit and looks cheap.
Take the pillars out. I went with a new dash. I've read on the Forum that some have been happy with dash caps, but the majority didn't like them. 
I also removed all of the dashes and center guage panel. Gives you a chance to check everything out. Unfortunately, all of my dashes were damaged so I ended up replacing just about everything in the interior.
Pro
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 627
Likes: 5
From: Frisco TX
Did the same thing on my '74. They crack easily after 30 years. You definitely have to take off the windshield pillars. I debated on whether to get a dash cap as well. Did a lot of research on the forum. There were some happy customers that went the cap route, however, I seem to remember most said don't do it. If you do get a new one, order through Willcox. They are only $270 or so and I believe it's the exact same one you'll get through Corvette America. Could be wrong but I do know it looks perfect.
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Racer
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 397
Likes: 1
From: CORTLANDT MANOR NY
With dash pads 30+ years old the vynl gets dried out and brittle. It is also important not to do it when it is very cold. Don't ask me how I know. I am also looking to buy a new dash pad so if anyone has real good experiences I would be interested.
Racer
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 260
Likes: 0
From: Wheaton Illinois
I said I pulled the dash pad out last night no problem. I did take the pillar pads out first. I was able to get it around the steel pillars. Well so much for good luck. I cracked the left side lower dash pad and I still cant get my hand in there to unhook the wiring. What a crazy hobby we have choosen.