1958 car; The windshield is off and I figure it is a good time to replace the dash pad (info I gathered in the archives). Is it necessary to remove the windshield to do a proper replacement of the dash pad or is it just easier? Does the steering columb and instrument cluster need to be removed. I want to do this myself and I dont want to screw up an expensive pad. I plan on using Al Knoch's products. Is his video good? Anyone out there want to rent it out? Any advice on this subject appreciated. Thanks, Ken
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Re: C1 Dashpad replacement
Ken,
You have to remove the windshield assembly. Fit the pad carefully t******* alittle at a time. When you apply spray adhesive to the car you can lay wax paper overtop the glue, slide your dashpad into place and slip out the wax paper. The wax paper will buy you some time to align dashpad properly. That's my tip of the day. -
Re: C1 Dashpad replacement
The windshield has to come off as well as the instrument cluster. I don't see any need to remove the steering column, but you might want to pull the wheel off just to get better access. Be sure to use a proper puller. Obviously the radio speaker grill and surround need to come off, as well as the defroster ducts. I would use as little glue as possible as the various moldings, instrument cluster, windshield, and RH panel insert serve to hold the pad down pretty well.Comment
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Re: C1 Dashpad replacement
Test fit; test fit; and, test fit again before gluing.
Use minimal glue. Most people use the 3M spray adhesive but consider brushing on the glue only where you want it. The 3M spray glue will eat lacquer, so mask your paint. I watched a pro install one of these. After he was satisfied with the test fit, he painted glue under the in place pad. Don't cut until last.
I think you could do it with the windshield on. But you'll do a better job and it'll be easier with the windshield off. Steering column doesn't need to come out, but you'll probably want to take the wheel off to make your job easier. Instrument cluster does need to come off.
The more of the leading edge you can get under the windshield, the better. You do want to glue here. You probably will need to trim some foam off by the instrument cluster and the passenger side dash insert. But the less the better. Getting the passenger side insert on is a 2 person job.Comment
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Re: C1 Dashpad replacement
Ken...
Al Knoch's pads are very good, the video is slow,but will keep you on the right track. Start by removing the grab bar & alum. insert, remove the right (door side bracket). Next; unbolt the instrument cluster and slide it back. remove the speaker bezel, defroster bezels and dash end caps as suggested. remove the old pad and fit in the new one. The only glue necessary is used under the flap that goes into the windshield grove. cut to make the curves and glue and at the same time you use and hot air gun to fold the material down into the
grove. cut out the pad sections for the alum.insert, speaker, defroster and trim for the inst. cluster. The only other glue to be used is under the dash, glue first then trim. Do not glue the fiber glass cutouts for tightening the windshield bolts and grab bar bracket until after assembly. The Pad is basically held in place with the cluster,alum insert & bazels. Use the hot air gun carefully as it will remove the material gain very quickly. Fit and refit the end cap mountings before t*******
As suggested, Fitting is very important. I can say, however; this is a fun project.Comment
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