Topic: new dash or use overlay ??
in Forum: C3 Interior
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Has anyone used a dash overlay to fix a dash or am I better off replacing it?
Joe
Joe
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From what I've read, it's six of one and half a dozen of the other. Niether is a simple fix and both require tweaking, trimming, and fitting. You are better off without either if you can swing it.
In a back issue of Corvette Enthusiast magazine (since the first of this year) there is a How-To article for 78-82 dash replacement including a long list of things to look out for, problem areas, fit, etc.
Doesn't help much, but I used a dash overlay on my first car (1974 Oldsmobile Omega) and I was happy with the result.
I put an cap on mine and I'm very happy with the results, I got it on e-bay for $20, painted it with the interior dye and it looks great. DaveM 2008-05-21 15:40:24
Lifetime Member #116
Dave's '82 
Lifetime MemberLemon Grove, CA - USA
Joined: 10/17/2007
Posts: 2041
Vette(s): 1982 C3 Collectors Edition 44000 miles, sat in the sun most of its life, My wife purchased it for me for Father's Day in 2007 from her girlfriend that had it for 19 years. It is on the road again. I'm retired but it is now my daily driver.
I pulled the dash out. It had lots of cracks. Ordered a new one and will be putting it back together shortly. I will look at the article on dash replacement. As far as coming off it was relatively easy to do. Of course I plan on replacing or checking everything I can now get at easily before I put everything back in. Heater core, replace all dash lights etc. Give me a week or so and I will let you know about is it worth it.
Lifetime MemberLemon Grove, CA - USA
Joined: 10/17/2007
Posts: 2041
Vette(s): 1982 C3 Collectors Edition 44000 miles, sat in the sun most of its life, My wife purchased it for me for Father's Day in 2007 from her girlfriend that had it for 19 years. It is on the road again. I'm retired but it is now my daily driver.
Corvette Enthusiast magazine on line does not have any issues older than Maye 2008 available to read on line. Does anyone have a copy if the issue on dash replacement that they could fax? 619 545 1286
Sometimes your local library will have popular magazines. Give them a call.
And mag co. are always trying to sell back issues.
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From all I have heard the top overlay is crap!!! I plan to eventually go with the full dash from Al Knoch Interiors when I get a LOT of ambition and heat for my garage this winter (or next-or next)......
Dave
Dave
Lifetime MemberHOWELL, NJ - USA
Joined: 5/18/2004
Posts: 6812
Vette(s): 1979, Targa Blue (72 Color), Pace Car rear spoiler, L88 hood, Dark blue factory interior, 525HP 406, HD 700R4, 370 gears,Steeroids, composite rear spring, TT IIs wrapped in T/A Radials.
I used a Coverlay dash cap. It was a lot of fitting work to get it right, but it's a good alternative for a driver or temporary fix until a full dash goes on.
To each his own. 
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in Forum: C3 Interior
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