Upper Dash Face replacement Options

[Speedmster]

We have been freshing up dads 914-6 (#1006). Had some paint work done and several other touch ups here and there.

We have the windshield out because the seal was dried up and only sealing 2/3rds the way around. With the windshield out we decided to replace the cracked dash pad and to replace the upper dash face (I think that is what it is called). My question is can the upper dash face be replaced with the windshield out without dropping the dash itself? If so, how do you recommend getting the forward edge of the material around and under the lip?

Clint


(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i9.photobucket.com-8132-1479564773.1.jpg)

(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i9.photobucket.com-8132-1479564773.2.jpg)

(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i9.photobucket.com-8132-1479564774.3.jpg)

(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i9.photobucket.com-8132-1479564774.4.jpg)

[iankarr]

Go for it! Here's a summary of how to remove the dash frame.

– Remove the lower dash "knee" pad (fasteners on bottom and sides) and the air vents (they pop out).

– Remove the turn signal and windshield wiper switches and steering column "collar".

– Remove bolt underneath the climate control, pull the unit forward, use a sharpie to mark the position of the cables with respect to the fasteners and release them. (some people prefer to release on the other end, but I had no trouble releasing from the control side. Just need to gently bend things a bit. don't forget to pull out the lights.

– Pull the wiring harness out of the channel at the base of the dash frame and let it dangle.

– There are four bolts under the windshield holding the dash frame to the car. They're accessed from under the cowl in the front trunk. To get at them, you'll need to remove the defroster hoses and vents by releasing the spring clip. Be very careful pulling the vents out...they're fragile and prone to cracking. Just wiggle them until they release.

– Once the cowl bolts are out, remove the side bolts holding the dash frame to the car. Make sure you have a helper so the frame doesn't just drop and pull on the wiring harness. Carefully pull the dash frame out, making sure you don't pull on the harness.

There are several threads on how to replace the upper dash pad, so I won't repeat those here. When it comes time to install the new dash top (I assume you got one from 914rubber), make sure you put a towel or other protection on the upper dash pad so that the studs from the top don't scratch it while you're trying to guide them into their holes.

Once the whole thing is assembled and you're ready to re-install, you'll need a helper to keep the dash in position while you guide the wiring harness back into the channel. Don't forget the windshield-to-dash rubber when finished.

Good luck!

Ian