Did you ever get around to doing this? I've heard it's a pretty tough job.

 

I did finish. With the replacement from Geno's Garage, they eliminated the OEM design to backscrew the dash, thus the replacement process is fairly straightforward. It is not required to pull the dash structure to do this (even though I had to to R&R AC evap and HC). Once I put the dash structure back in without the dash cover, which is a hell of alot easier, the replacement laid right in. I used the OEM trim spray paint to match and after several coats, it looks really good. The little window side defrost vents busted when trying to re-fit and will have to eventually replace those, but over all the fitment is pretty good. Much sturdier the the original POS.

 

I bought my 2001 1500 brand new in 01, and by 2003 cracks started to appear across the middle and directly in front of the passenger seat. Still my daily driver, and the dash has now completley caved in. Eye sore, but I dont care, I love that truck.

 

i found one of these dash tops new in the box just a few miles from my house on craigslist......picked it up for $170...probaly gonna be next sat before i install it......looks pretty nice though.......very sick of looking at whats left of mine....pic in my album

 

I installed one of those in mine...but did not get the bargain that you did! Good score. Pretty straight forward. Only thing is the hole in the end is slightly off. Just have to drill new hole.

 

No problem there....was also told by a friend to disconect brake switch and shift indicator cable before rolling dash foward or they will break for sure....i just hate pulling bezel and trim.....i have a tendancy to lose patience and break plastic clips

 

Use a good trim removal tool. Not a cheap plastic set, and not a plain screwdriver...that will make it easier and lessen risk of breaking bezel. Looking at new dash piece will give yuo an idea where those pesky clips are hidden.

 

I know it's an old post...but I almost fell outta my chair laughing at that one.

First three things to go on a Dodge: Plastic, Paint, and Steering/Suspension.

 

My non-garaged Arizona 98 Ram doesn't have any of the 3 problems you mentioned. Of course I put a dash cover on the dash within a week of when I bought it. But my paint is fine and I wash it about once a month at a brush and roller type car wash and get the "ultimate" wash with wax and UV polish. Steering has been good, too. I guess they are common problems, but after reading here and at the CTD forum, more people say they don't have those problems than those who do.

 

But this shows that blacksheep was doing a search....that is a good thing! Most noobs don't search.