My dash finally gave up so a new one was just purchased. I have read horror stories about taking on this task but plan to start anyway. I'm wondering if anyone would share tips for me to brows so usual pitfalls might be avoided.

 

There are several threads about this here. Do a search, I think someone actually did a write up on their dash replacement. Some folks consider it a good idea to replace the heater core, and evaporator core while they are in there.

 

beeker did an excellent walkthrough on dash replacement in the FAQ area. It helped make my dash replacement last year much easier. It's not that its hard, just time consuming. Start early on a saturday and you should be good.

 

It's really not bad at all. I did it in a parking lot in about half a day, and mine's a stick. Takes awhile to get the old one out but the new one goes in real easy.

Have all your sockets and screwdrivers ready. A very stubby Philips is needed as well as some little angle drivers to remove the vent screws. If you want to do it right, you replace the vent screws in the new dash so they are tight up against it.

Don't forget to unplug battery a good half hour before removing the airbag. If you have an auto, remove the gear indicator cable before dropping the steering wheel.

If you're using LMC dash (I hope) then it fits real nice and snug like the oem does. Be careful with the underdash plastic as that's brittle too. The new dash is much softer and bendable.

I'm actually doing my heater core today after lunch so I'll add more tips if I remember any.

 

What is a LMC dash? I bout the only one I found, from genosgarage.com. I have to paint it to match and also to cover the glare.

 

LMC trucks is an an online store where you can buy parts for older vehicles.

http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/fr/full.aspx?Page=47

 

The LMC dash is the best out there, period. It fits much better than genos and is already the correct color. I highly recommend it.

I'm more than half way done with the heater core. Got the new one in just have to put the dash back. Much more involved than just replacing the dash top. I had to nearly fully remove the dash and hung it from straps to the half-door latches on the roof so I could reach behind. If you're just doing the dash, you only have to loosen it enough to roll forward somewhat. And its much heavier with the airbag still in. Have to remove all the shifters and boots/consoles since I have a stick.

 

I looked at covers but I need the replacement dash. Mine shattered when rear-ended during a rain storm. I'm still picking pieces out that fell down into the dash. Mine should be delivered this week and to return would cost me $50 shipping. I can't find the write-up on doing this job using "search". The purchased one comes with instructions but not sure how good they will be.

 

I replied to your pm. Both LMC and Geno's sell a replacement dash, though they both also sell a cover to hide the original broken/cracked dash.

<edit> Also, there are several videos on youtube showing the process as well.

 

Thanks for the help and comments. LMC was having problems with web site is reason I could not find the dash. I canceled order from Geno (10 wk delivery) and ordered from LMC by phone. 2 week delivery.