Interior Repro Dash Question

[wrc3]

The dash I recently purchased looks great on the front side, but on the back side none of the holes for screwing in the heater vent, tach mount, speedo mount, etc. are pre-drilled like the original. Is this standard with all repro's or just mine?

 

[jonsflavette]

Yes, no "exact" holes, they do a plastic build-out, (mounting risers) I got my dash from Willcox. I persume because of the age, and nature of an aftermarket product(s) I used a sharp awl to mark, and a real whimpy 4.6 volt battery small hobby drill, very small bit for pilot holes. A PITA but it will turn out nice with patience.

 

[wrc3]

Ya ok, that was what mine was like. It was a PITA, I did most of the work last weekend. I am also concerned that over time those screws will wiggle and jolt enough to widen those holes. What do you think? Just doesn't seem as sturdy as the originals, or even as sturdy as it could be. You know maybe some extra depth of plastic at the drill points or something.

B

 

[jonsflavette]

That's ironic you say that, I thought the same thing at the time, I used "gorillia" glue on the threads, it expands, kinda messy, but you don't need much. Especially on the rear of the wiper switch/bezel. I don't like the way that somewhat lays in there, with one holding screw for the whole assembly. It's a strange design even on the factory dash. All in all it turned out real good, better than I thought actully. All gauges are now digital, I hate those circut boards, they hate the Florida heat, that's for sure.

 

[wrc3]

Sounds like a good idea. What is the stuff? Got a brand name or something? I haven't installed yet and still have a few more holes to drill, so it is probably worth it to go back and glue the threads on the holes I have drilled.

I haven't gotten to the wiper switch yet. My only problem with interior work is that you have to be so damn careful. I much rather prefer cutting off rusted exhaust pipes with a sawzall.

B

 

[jonsflavette]

I don't think you have the same wiper switch bezel as my 79, (78-82) Gorillia glue is a very strong expanding (about 50% expanding) general purpose glue. You can get it at the home depot. I used it on the screw tread, not the hole, just like loc-tite would be used. Don/t use much. I like the way it slightly bubbles up for locking stuff in, similar to factory glues in similar applications. Not for finish work. Speaking of finish work, as an A/C guy for am occupation, I love the ol saw saw, not exactly your fine finish tool either. You could still "back out" those screws in the back part of the dash if you had too, but "hopefully" thats not for a hell of a long time.