Newbie with first question
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,069
Likes: 2
From: Sherwood Park AB
Newbie with first question
I have been lurking on this site for a while, and have seen some excellent posts.
I am rebuilding my 78, and I have the interior stripped, except the dash. Now, how do I get the dash out? All the screws are out, it doesn't seem to want to come out between the windshield and pillar posts. I tried to snake it out, and stopped trying when I cracked the corner.
Is there a way to get it out? Do I need to remove it to do the heater core?
Thanks
I am rebuilding my 78, and I have the interior stripped, except the dash. Now, how do I get the dash out? All the screws are out, it doesn't seem to want to come out between the windshield and pillar posts. I tried to snake it out, and stopped trying when I cracked the corner.
Is there a way to get it out? Do I need to remove it to do the heater core?
Thanks
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 8,351
Likes: 75
From: Tampa Bay FL
Re: Newbie with first question (rexx78)
My 1980 Assembly Manual diagram for dashboard installation notes two screws on the dashboard along the door pillars on the left and right of the dash. Also, the dashboard is attached to three window fram retainers at the base of the windshield (from underneath the dashboard). I have also heard that the steering column needs to be dropped 3-4 inches to relieve the tension on the lower dashboard for removal.
Am assuming you have already removed the glove box, speedo/tach cluster, center gauge cluster, steering column cover (covers the underside of column that passes throught he dash), and the in-dash speakers/wires.
Am assuming you have already removed the glove box, speedo/tach cluster, center gauge cluster, steering column cover (covers the underside of column that passes throught he dash), and the in-dash speakers/wires.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 6,362
Likes: 7
From: Brazos TX
Cruise-In IV Veteran
Cruise-In V Veteran
Re: Newbie with first question (rexx78)
I removed mine (a '78) by bending the corners so they cleared the a pillars. One corner did crack. I don't think there is any other way. When new it was probably pliable so that it wouldn't crack when bent. I don't think you need to remove it to change the heater core. Everything should come out the firewall. I happened to have the dash out when I changed the core but I don't think it is needed.
By the way, welcome to the forum. Post pictures as soon as you can, we want to see it no matter what condition it's in.
By the way, welcome to the forum. Post pictures as soon as you can, we want to see it no matter what condition it's in.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 9,662
Likes: 7
From: Semper ubi, sub ubi
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
Re: Newbie with first question (rexx78)
It's hard to do without cracking, but heat helps get it flexible. Try laying an electric blanket on it and getting it really warm before you try to get it out.
