Mid year dash pad installation

[Michael G.]

It appears my dash pad of 42 years ('63 Coupe) has finally given up! Cracked! Is it possible to install a new or newer dash pad w/o taking the dash out? Or would it be easier to install pads by taking the dash completely out of the car? Any thoughts out there? What vendor(s) are making the better quality pads?

Should any of your have a left and right dark blue pad for a '63 please contact me....repro is ok. Thanks in advance. Mike #28614.

[Bob R.]

Re: Mid year dash pad installation

I replaced the dash pads in my 63 convertible and removed the entire dash to do it. It may be possible to do in place but would certainly be difficult. At any rate you must remove the glove box assembly, gage cluster, & radio. The old parts are held in place with small clips. Removal of all the above is required to access the clips. To remove them you slip a screw driver in the middle of the old clip. The clip will spread and fall out. Most of the old clips will break just as you try to reuse them so you should get some replacements.
I believe Al Knock has the best interior materials. You can check him out at his web site.

[Michael G.]

Re: Mid year dash pad installation

I supposed that would be the case. Thinking of ease, I would image that removing the steering column would promote additional access as well (?). Thanks for the response.

[Aaron D'Innocenzo]

Re: Mid year dash pad installation

For what it is worth I believe that you have no choice but to remove the steering column tube. I just overhauled the instrument cluster in my '63 and I found it neccessary to drop the steering column as it is fastened to the underside of the instrument cluster. Then just slide the column tube off of the steering column shaft (assuming of course that you have already removed the steering wheel). You will then be able to easily remove the instrument cluster.