Dash Material

[Ant]

Currently doing my dashboard, I opted for fibreglass, so I could do the curved ends, and correct/repair any faults easier!!

Firstly I am under the impression that the coverings was a coarse type grain vinyl, which I have similar material commonly used on utility vehicles for deck covers. The next trick is to remove the backing from the vinyl......yes my first car is still perfect 15 years later with this thin black skin! Also I personally think dashboards look cr*ppy with padding - so I assume the original never had any!

Cut your holes and with a piece of material make sure the gauge will fit, without forcing it. Use some upholsterers glue, and it should be able to handle heat on a hot day.

You need to sand prep the dash surface, and then glue both surfaces leaving time for solvents and glue to get really tacky, this is critical as all you will get for days is un-cured glue! Next very important to STRETCH the material as you lay it down, as you dont need saggy bits! Also leave plenty of material to go over the back say at least 1.5 -2".

Holes as mentioned in this post cut a cross but dont go near the hole size as you want un-cut material to go under and down the side of gauge, and as it comes over rear edge the cut will start, and the gauge will hold it.

In finishing I am dreading to this one as it was 15 years ago, make sure you have a spare day to do it as you may need to come back to it to get all the air/ un-cured glue sorted, and maybe the best advice is to get a professional Upholster to do it, but dont let them talk you in to cr*p padding etc!!