Dash and Console Installation
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 18
From: Tomball TX
Dash and Console Installation
I'm trying to put the dash and console back into my '73 and nothing wants to fit right now....
My last try (in order): rt. dash, center dash, lt. dash, shift console, center bezel... the p-brake cover won't line-up/fit!?!?!
Anybody have any suggestions on the best order to do this (and/or any other suggestions)?
Thanks
My last try (in order): rt. dash, center dash, lt. dash, shift console, center bezel... the p-brake cover won't line-up/fit!?!?!
Anybody have any suggestions on the best order to do this (and/or any other suggestions)?
Thanks
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 6,640
Likes: 287
From: Ann Arbor Michigan
Install the whole center section first starting from the gauge cluster and moving back. If you haven't already been there, the hardest part is the nuts that hold the gauge cluster to the shifter console.Gary
Safety Car
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,732
Likes: 708
From: Shelton, Connecticut
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16
Guage cluster to console
The easiest way to attach the cluster to the console is to leave the console loose with the foward side panels off. Reach in from the side to install the speed nuts on the gauge cluster loosely. With the cluster in place in the dash, start with the cluster screws leaving the loose nuts until last. Ensure the console is lined up, then tighten the two cluster studs/nuts. The best tool is the 3/8 1/4" drive socket on the flexible shaft with a 1/4" screwdriver handle.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 809
Likes: 8
From: brewster NY
Former Vendor
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 76,656
Likes: 1,851
From: Jeffersonville Indiana 812-288-7103
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
This might help you on the pads. . It contains detail on how to take it out and just reverse to install.
http://willcoxcorvette.com/repairand...lp.php?hID=105
This one is for the center gauge housing and it also has some real good details in it.
http://willcoxcorvette.com/repairand...lp.php?hID=112
Willcox
http://willcoxcorvette.com/repairand...lp.php?hID=105
This one is for the center gauge housing and it also has some real good details in it.
http://willcoxcorvette.com/repairand...lp.php?hID=112
Willcox
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 18
From: Tomball TX
Thanks everyone for the help. Unfortunately, after multiple repairs prior to this, the LT dash pad didn't survive. While I could glue/expoxy it again, I think its time for it to be replaced, along with the rest of the pads which are also crapped out. I'll keep everyone posted after I try this install with new parts.
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Brett Foote
Former Vendor
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 76,656
Likes: 1,851
From: Jeffersonville Indiana 812-288-7103
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
If you do need new pads, we have them listed in the forum sale side and they are available for the additional forum discount coupon on the current sale.
http://willcoxcorvette.com/advanced_...rds=dash%20pad
http://willcoxcorvette.com/advanced_...rds=dash%20pad
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 18
From: Tomball TX
New pads
Finally around to installing a full set of new pads. While they look great, and using everyone's advice, installled pretty easily, with one exception - is it common for these pads to not line up 100%? (these are corvette america panels)
For example, two of the three Lt. dash screws line up perfectly, the third (outboard) misses the clip by more than an 1/8 inch...I was thinking about oversizing these holes to get a better angle, but I didn't want to tear these panels up if it's just something I'm doing wrong...Right now, I just left it with the screw out...
Also, the RT dash fits fine, but there's a fair-sized gap at the bottom where it meets the center console.
Can't be sure if this is me or the panels I'm having trouble with. I'm taking everything out and trying again this morning...
Any hints or pointers appreciated....?
Thanks everyone for the previous help!
For example, two of the three Lt. dash screws line up perfectly, the third (outboard) misses the clip by more than an 1/8 inch...I was thinking about oversizing these holes to get a better angle, but I didn't want to tear these panels up if it's just something I'm doing wrong...Right now, I just left it with the screw out...
Also, the RT dash fits fine, but there's a fair-sized gap at the bottom where it meets the center console.
Can't be sure if this is me or the panels I'm having trouble with. I'm taking everything out and trying again this morning...
Any hints or pointers appreciated....?
Thanks everyone for the previous help!
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 38,923
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From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2007
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From: Canboro Ontario
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,237
Likes: 4,328
From: Westminster Maryland
Hi M,
I found that getting the many pieces in place with all the screws started but not tightened, helps. Then you can start to tighten everything at the same time and make adjustments to keep the pieces as aligned as possible.
Good Luck! The dash can be very frustrating. Continue to test the electrical and vacuum components as you work to make sure you don't pinch a hose or pull out a light socket.
Regards,
Alan
I found that getting the many pieces in place with all the screws started but not tightened, helps. Then you can start to tighten everything at the same time and make adjustments to keep the pieces as aligned as possible.
Good Luck! The dash can be very frustrating. Continue to test the electrical and vacuum components as you work to make sure you don't pinch a hose or pull out a light socket.
Regards,
Alan