Dashtop replacement

SteveStromberg · 10-10-2001, 06:59 AM

The dashtop I replaced in the 74, I did it with the windshield out. Has anyone replaced the dashtop with the windsheild inplace? Steve

[This message has been edited by SteveStromberg (edited 10-10-2001).]

jabez · 10-10-2001, 09:18 AM

Can be done, I did it. The nuts under the hood are the hardest part. You'll need the fresh air box and possibly the wipers out but that is easier than pulling the windshield.

bowlsby · 10-10-2001, 09:38 AM

The entire sheet metal subdash frame unbolts, the dash cover is bolted to that. Remove the steering wheel and column, kneepad, 2 screws at each end of the kneepad, the 4-5 screws under the kneepad, radio nut to the front bulkhead, the 4-5 nuts under the cowl, fresh air box (gas tank out)...its easier than trying to get those nylon nuts off by trying to reach under the dash. It takes about 90 minutes to remove, probably another 2 hours to reinstall.

tahoward · 10-10-2001, 03:46 PM

I did mine in 2 hours, but its tricky. If you have a new dash so that you know where to look for the nylon screws it helps a lot. I took the lower part of the dash off, gauge cluster and the glove box out. The tough ones were the ones behind the gauges. My then 14 year old daughter, with small hands, was able to remove those. I didn't replace those two nuts, just in case I needed back in there. Good luck.

clubracr · 10-10-2001, 04:57 PM

I've removed several but never put one back in. Just stripped out the rust buckets. Remove the gauges and glove box door. Not necessary but easier- remove the steering wheel and ashtray (so it doesn't dent the dash). Pull out the radio. Triple check that all nylon nuts and the two screws on the side are off. Then lift and remove, very gently. If it feels tight go back and check a fourth time for more nuts. I imagine installation is just the reverse. I use an open end wrench, ratchet and socket, gear drive box end wrench, and a phillips screwdriver. 20 minutes tops.