1986 Targa vs Coupe Dash Swap...Yes and No.

[fallingat120mph]

So I am transferring parts from my targa to my coupe and found out yes you can remove the 1986 coupe dash without windshield/windscreen removal and no you can not remove the dash from the targa with the windshield in.

The issue, on the targa, was I could not remove the metal piece at the front off the dash possibly due to a difference in angle? The targa windshield measured angle was noticeably different than the coupe. I do not remember the exact measurements.


The coupe dash came out with some effort but that was mostly due to adhesive under the dash.




I know this has been talked about in the past and just wanted to pass on my experience.

With the HVAC removed, a few dials pulled out and some extensions it wasn't as hard as I thought. The biggest thing was removing the center vent - especially without damaging the good dash. Going in from behind and somehow releasing the tabs that way worked much better than from the front, like the side dash vents.

Again, just posting for others in the event they want to attempt this. Maybe some targa owners have had different experiences...



Erik

[mooch29]

Interesting discovery! My dash is badly warped in my 86 Targa, I am dying to replace it.

[fallingat120mph]

Originally Posted by mooch29

Interesting discovery! My dash is badly warped in my 86 Targa, I am dying to replace it.

Well, this was just my experience.

Maybe others (targa owners) had better luck.



Maybe if you tried just removing the metal piece covering the front/def. vents just to see if it's possible at that level. Of course a lot of other stuff has to come out from the trunk area, but then at least you would know for sure.




Good Luck!

Erik

[mooch29]

Originally Posted by fallingat120mph

Well, this was just my experience.

Maybe others (targa owners) had better luck.



Maybe if you tried just removing the metal piece covering the front/def. vents just to see if it's possible at that level. Of course a lot of other stuff has to come out from the trunk area, but then at least you would know for sure.




Good Luck!

Erik

Mine is warped enough where its pulled up enough to where the dash is pulled up over the vent by the windshield. Hoping it can get it out when it comes time to replace it. I need to find a good place to buy one from.

Whats the plan for yours?

[fallingat120mph]

Originally Posted by mooch29

Mine is warped enough where its pulled up enough to where the dash is pulled up over the vent by the windshield. Hoping it can get it out when it comes time to replace it. I need to find a good place to buy one from.

Whats the plan for yours?

The new one goes in the "good" car and the old one was warping pretty bad over the dial area. Few cracks in odd places...probably will keep around for a few years to see if it's worth trying to repair, not sure yet what to do with it.


Getting ready for my final move to our new house so for now will wrap it up carefully and store.

Erik