I have seven years into a body off restoration on my 1971 big block numbers matching coupe. Nevada silver with a red interior. Automatic with power steering, power brakes, power windows. Just got back from paint in June, car has not been started yet after motor rebuild. I have a body off restoration under my belt for my 1967 about 8 years ago. Frame was complete before paint minus interior including new dash wiring harness. My question is I’m about to install upper dash pad, tach/speedo lower pad, center gauge cluster, passenger side lower dash pad and dash wiring harness. All are Al Knoch reproductions except center gauge cluster, my originals are beyond repair. I have read that I should install left lower pad first, center gauge cluster next , upper dash pad and finally the right lower pad. Someone recommended installing the wiring harness directly to the lower speedo/tach assembly and then installing in the car as a complete unit. I was going through my new wire harness this morning identifying termination points and checking my light bulbs for functionality. I purchase a light build kit but want to be sure that they’re all good before installing, which I know will be difficult to reach later. Looks to me that speedo/tach pad with harness attach will be rather cumbersome to handle and install as a unit. Am I better off installing the wiring harness first and then the left lower pad, center cluster, upper pad and they right lower pad?
Looking for advice or recommendations. Also any thoughts on how to install center gauge cluster without snapping it into two.
P.S. What a nerve racking experience drilling fastener holes in these new dash pads! I also have new speedo/tach lenses on order, not happy with the look of the originals.

Thank you,

Jeff

 

I just finished doing this on my '73. My order of installation was new dash harness 1st, then LH dash pad, then the top pad. From there I put in the console and E-brake cover. It seemed easier to me to work on the vent cables and console controls without the center gauge cluster and radio in the way. After that was done I installed the gauge cluster, radio, and finally the RH dash pad.

Rich

 

Thank you, Rich, for your reply.

Can I install my carpeting after my shifter console is in place and just cut and tuck the carpeting up and under the console afterwards? I was hoping to install my carpeting last to keep them as clean as possible.

Jeff

 

You can, although it might be a bit trickier. I usually cover the carpet with an old bath towel on the side I am working on.

Rich