Key hole under dash 1959

[Stephen B.]

I recently had my 59 judged in Dayton Ohio. I got my first Top Flight, but found that several things weren't quit right. Much to my surprise I was missing the block off plate for the courtesy lamp, and the key hole used for the power top. 8 point deduct ouch. My question, who among you has put the key hole in and what are the most accurate ways of doing so. I want my 8 points back next time.
Stephen Barrett (215580
1959 1966 1971

[Vinnie P.]

Re: Key hole under dash !959

Stephen...check the Spring 2009 issue of The Restorer...page 50 & 51 two articles on the cutout...Volume 35, #4...if you don't have the magazine you can order the complete CD from the NCRS store

[Stephen B.]

Re: Key hole under dash !959

Thanks Vinnie
Don't have that issue. how about a quick explanation anyone. How you did it is fine. I have my own ideas, but always interested in others methods.

[Vinnie P.]

Re: Key hole under dash !959

check your email

[Donald H.]

Re: Key hole under dash !959

Here's a picture of mine. I cut the hole when I installed the dash, so I was able to do it through the speaker grille opening. Also, my car is a no radio option car. I used a small brass plumping fitting that was the same size as the hole in the fiberglass. I used a pointed grinding stone to sharpen the inside edge of the brass tube. I held a block of wood tight against the underside of the key hole opening and slowly rotated the home made cutting tool. Cut a very clean opening. I then used a xacto knife to trim out the small slot.