upper dash pad replacement

[zeeman]

oooops! I should never have touched it! I tried to get it out so I could repair the crack and cover it in vinyl. It disintegrated. By the time I got it into my basement there were 6 or 7 pieces. Every time I touched it it just got worse. has anyone used one of the caps? I saw a couple on ebay but they are designed to go over the original and there arnt any fins in the grill.
2nd I was looking at some used dash panels. I am pretty worried I would spend the cash and break the damn thing installing it.
any alternatives? hints?

[Boost Addict]

Check out the 6LE dash pads. Look decent and what I would consider a good price.

[MunsterZ28]

the 6le is just a cap that you have to use the old dash with it. plus its not even a product they make, they distribute. i wouldnt pay the money for a 6le dash again. if you can find them cheaper on ebay go that route. otherwise if you want to actually replace the upper dash youll have to find oem.

[birdie2000]

I chose to buy a used one. Worked out great, was even shipped and it held up fine. That was a few years ago though, I'm sure they're not getting any easier to find. Just be gentle installing it and try not to flex it.

[dawdaw]

I cracked mine as well, went to a junk yard here in flint and there was a dozen cars and one had a perfect dash pad... got lucky and it didn't break and paid 5 bucks for the thing lol... I would try and junkyard and see what you can come up with.

[zeeman]

I actually did just that dawdaw. I went to the pick and pull to check and see if they had any. Struck out. But did score a set of ebony seats! I am going to use portions of the covers to repair the ebony seats I have now. but thats another story....where was I?........Oh yeah, the dash pad.... So I loaded up the Jeep and was cruising home on Groesbeck, and as I passed Highway auto parts I noticed a stripped red Camaro out in front. So I turned around and went back. There was a guy out front blowing off the concrete and some people working. Moving cars around. I went over to the Camaro and looked in at a beautiful upper dash pad. I spoke to the guy using the blower who turned out to be the owners brother. Long story short....$15.00! Its out of a 2002, since I have the 97+ dash in my car it worked out perfectly. Didnt even break a tab! I gotta go buy some lotto tickets tonight!! lol!
In all her glory!



Thanks for all the advice guys, it is much appreciated. I really didnt have any idea what I was going to do. That old pad was more brittle than a soda cracker.

[riderman329]

Is it easier going in then coming out? I feel as there may be a few cus words said when I go to put mine in a few weeks

[Boost Addict]

Is it easier going in then coming out?

It's ALWAYS easier going in than coming out


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[riderman329]

I don't know about the girls you see but that's not always the case.

[birdie2000]

I would say it's much easier as a two person job going in, but doable by yourself if you're careful. It's been a while, but I don't remember it being all that difficult. Just be careful.

[BP_Z28]

Ive taken mine our numerous times in the green Camaro and twice with the black. fairly easy and straightforward. Patience is the biggest factor

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[zeeman]

Going in was a snap. I put the drivers side in first and cocked the pas. Side way up, it was neccesary to flex it just a tad. Once its inside the windshield frame its easy.
Taking it out of the donor was way more nerve wracking