Hey y'all

Would appreciate a 'How to" linkto removing and replacingthe dashboard in a 65 coupe.
Thanx
TC

 

Just for clarification, what are you replacing, the pad, the instrument cluster or the entire piece of sheet metal that everything mounts to? They are alloften called the 'dashboard'.
Jim

 

Hi Jim,

I want to replace the pad and in the process get to the windshield wiper system and overhaul it . My wipers ,each dances to a different tune... it looks very funny

TC

 

The problem : a drooped dash pad. All wrinkled and twisted from years of sun exposure



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Been there. By the numbers:
Remove:
- All the trim under the pad. Use 0000 steel wool to clean it, then chrome polish. I like Turtle wax.
- Glove box - there's a nut in the corner that need to be removed.
- Instrument cluster - same nut, different side.
- Both upper trim pieces under the windshield - 7 long sheet metal screws.
- Speaker grill and speaker - there's two more nuts that hold that center piece in.
- Remove the pad. Ford used contact cement so it maytake some effort. As the pad is 'beyond' re-use, feel free to damage it further.
- At this stage, if you remove the radio, you have full access to the wiper motor and mechanism. If you desire and can find one, a two speed wiper motor, bracket and switch might be advisable to install at this time. Use new leather or rubber pads (NPD 2007 Cat pg 132) at the place where the shaft goes thru the cowl.
- To put in a new dash pad, follow the steps above in reverse. I didn't use any contact cement and don't see any problems in mine. If you have a problem in hardware, the nuts or the screws, let me know.
Jim

 

Thanx a bunch Jim.
I'll report progress with pix and holar at you if I hit a brick wall.

TC