removing dash pads 65

[Michael D.]

Hello all
I pulled the complete dash out of my 65 roadster and I have to replace the pads, they are cracked and broken. How do I remove the pads from the dash itself?
Also, who has the best quality pads...fit and so on. I am restoring my 65. I have to replace MANY parts on my vette. I am wondering where I can get "the best quality for the money" aftermarket, replacement,NOS, parts... I replaced parts back in the 70's with what was available at the time. The car has been in a barn since 82. Most everything has pitted or rusted. I have catalogs from Paragon, Mid America, Corvette America, CentralCorvette and a few others. Thanks for any response.. Mike D #1787

[Joe Pearson]

Re: removing dash pads 65

Hi Mike, Al Knoch has nice interior components, (alknochinteriors.com) and check out (justdashes.com) for repair of pads. Long Island Corvette (licorvette.com) is fast and has most repro parts. Joe.

[Bob R.]

Re: removing dash pads 65

The pads can be removed by inserting a small screw driver into the clips and spread them apart. Reinsert the clips and squeeze them together to replce them. You only get about 2 attempts with the clips then they break. Replacements are available from Long Island Corvette or Paragon.
I installed replacement pads in my car and found that they are a little thicker then the original. therefor a little difficult to get a tight fit.
The source I like best for reproduction parts is either Paragon or Long Island Corvette. They aren't the cheapest but they have a good inventory and the quality is good. For interior materials like carpet or pads everyone says Al Knock is the best. Not the cheapest.

[Michael D.]

Re: removing dash pads 65

Thanks Joe and Bob. I will have plenty more questions to come. I did buy all the books from the NCRS store that refer to my year. Thanks again Mike D