71 dash install tips
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,139
Likes: 82
71 dash install tips
I've removed and installed a aftermarket top dash pad on my 71 with ease several times. I finally found a very nice OEM pad and decided to do a dry fit before dying and final install. I found the OEM dash fits much tighter than the aftermarket, this is good(better fitment) but I can't get it in.
I need some help getting this dash in, I can't crack this pad! It looks like the only way to get it in is bow it up in the middle. Yes, the windshield has been installed. I know warming it up will help, any other tips?
Thanks, Kevin
I need some help getting this dash in, I can't crack this pad! It looks like the only way to get it in is bow it up in the middle. Yes, the windshield has been installed. I know warming it up will help, any other tips?
Thanks, Kevin
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,428
Likes: 5
From: Japan
Unfortunately, the only way to pop it into position is to shove it past the A-pillars, and this generally requires a moderate amount of upward pressure on the bottom of the pad. I cracked my OE pad trying to gently whack it back into place after my 4-speed swap a few years ago, so now mine has an aftermarket pad.
Others no doubt will have suggestions as to how to get yours in without cracking...best if luck.
Others no doubt will have suggestions as to how to get yours in without cracking...best if luck.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,273
Likes: 4,366
From: Westminster Maryland
Hi Kevin,
I don't know of any way to get the pad in with out putting upward pressure in the center of the pad.
A dangerous thing to do at best.
Sorry, no suggestions!
Regards,
Alan
I don't know of any way to get the pad in with out putting upward pressure in the center of the pad.
A dangerous thing to do at best.
Sorry, no suggestions!
Regards,
Alan
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,139
Likes: 82
Thanks for the input, kinda wishing I had installed it before the windshield now. I guess this is the reason aftermarket pads have so much room at the pillar edges, downsized for easier install?
Kevin
Kevin
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 104
Likes: 15
From: Bennington VT
Kevin:
I had to replace my dash pad a couple years ago as mine was cracked down the middle. I found that by placing the pad on a black towel in the driveway under direct sun, the heat allowed the dash to flex and it went right in. This method worked for me.
I had to replace my dash pad a couple years ago as mine was cracked down the middle. I found that by placing the pad on a black towel in the driveway under direct sun, the heat allowed the dash to flex and it went right in. This method worked for me.
