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Posted by: 98101 Feb 9 2018, 08:41 PM

Sorry if you saw this same question on another thread. I either missed the answer, or people have been reluctant to answer.

I've got to replace the dash metal (vinyl, etc.) and would kinda like to do the dash cap at the same time. Mine is a 1970 that doesn't have the vent holes on the sides that people use for access. I understand it's much easier with the windshield out, but if your windshield is OK, would you remove it just to do this?

Posted by: rdauenhauer Feb 9 2018, 09:20 PM

Don't know anyone on here that could be called "reluctant"
but DO NOT REMOVE THE GLASS unless you planned on replacing it anyway.
There is a better than 50% chance you will crack it.
Every thing you are contemplating is do-able with glass in place, its just as you say, easier w/ it out

Posted by: Chris914n6 Feb 9 2018, 09:22 PM

No, and I've had the dash frame in and out a few time with my conversion. It will come out again when I do upholstery. It's not hard, just a process.

Posted by: michael7810 Feb 9 2018, 09:22 PM

You do not need to remove the windshield. I just removed the dash top from my ‘72 and accessed most of the nuts from the underside except for the ones behind the instruments. Removing the glass would open up access to the top of the dashboard and there is not anything up there to remove when removing the dash. Unless there is something peculiar to the early cars that I’m not aware of.

Posted by: 98101 Feb 10 2018, 02:47 AM

Cool. Thank you all for the advice. I know dash top cracks are normal, but I'm looking forward to not having them anymore.

Posted by: sixaddict Feb 10 2018, 08:03 AM

So you already have the answer, but Chris914 was not being honest it is PITA...I described the job to one of the shops I use as wanting to cry ....and he said " oh you changed the dash" ...plan on gnashing of teeth and pain as you work this one through unless the have small hands...There is a Brad Mayeur video on here somewhere showing the process you should play but recognize where he is doing it and the contortionist you will need to be to do it.
Here is my suggestion....Have a comprehensive set of 1/4 drive ratchet/extensions and an LED light to strap to your head. I also pull the seats out for space.

Lastly I am curious---- did you get your 70 dash pad repaired/ refurbished as I have one I need and cant find anyone to do it correctly.
Good luck and just like the doctor at prostate exam time, I hope you have small hands!



quote name='98101' date='Feb 10 2018, 12:47 AM' post='2577294']
Cool. Thank you all for the advice. I know dash top cracks are normal, but I'm looking forward to not having them anymore.
[/quote]

Posted by: 98101 Feb 10 2018, 02:35 PM

QUOTE(sixaddict @ Feb 10 2018, 06:03 AM)

So you already have the answer, but Chris914 was not being honest it is PITA...I described the job to one of the shops I use as wanting to cry ....and he said " oh you changed the dash" ...plan on gnashing of teeth and pain as you work this one through unless the have small hands...There is a Brad Mayeur video on here somewhere showing the process you should play but recognize where he is doing it and the contortionist you will need to be to do it.
Here is my suggestion....Have a comprehensive set of 1/4 drive ratchet/extensions and an LED light to strap to your head. I also pull the seats out for space.

Lastly I am curious---- did you get your 70 dash pad repaired/ refurbished as I have one I need and cant find anyone to do it correctly.
Good luck and just like the doctor at prostate exam time, I hope you have small hands!