Dash Cap Options

[beatnavy]

So it's time to replace the windshield, and after struggling to find a local service provider willing to tackle the job (for less than a $1000, parts and labor), I decided I better just do it myself. I've now removed the windshield and am almost done cleaning the leftover goo in the frame. I've also removed the horribly cracked windshield to dash rubber "seal" for replacement.

In category of "while I'm in there" (I think I may start referring to this car as the "Red Onion" -- '914's are like onions - they have layers!') I suppose now's the best time to install one of those dash cap covers over my cracked one. I see at least two options that Pelican sells: the rather generic sounding one for $120 and then a Coverking option that I think ran $85. What's the difference, what would you recommend of these two (or something else)? The difference in cost is not an issue, I just want something that will install well and significantly improve the look of what's there now.

Thanks!

[Cairo94507]

You may wish to consider consulting a local upholstery guy and see if they can cover your existing dash in leather. Might not be as expensive as you think and I think you would be pleased with the finished result. Just a thought.
Here is a pic of my dash, sorry it is the only one I could find.

[mepstein]

the plastic caps that cover the dash look like the real thing from a couple feet away. Don't glue them to the old dash (you might get it recovered some day). just pop them on and a sunny day will heat them up and settle. I've seen them for $65-120 on ebay.

[larrym]

X2 on Matt's solution

- I have had a molded hard plastic PALCO Dashtop on my car for 20 yrs

- and no Concours judge has ever even noticed

p.s. $1000 ????????? - - i can get a 914 windshield, with removal & installation, in Sacramento area at LowPriceAutoGlass for under $250 after i remove the trim for them -

Originally Posted by mepstein

the plastic caps that cover the dash look like the real thing from a couple feet away. Don't glue them to the old dash (you might get it recovered some day). just pop them on and a sunny day will heat them up and settle. I've seen them for $65-120 on ebay.

[beatnavy]

Roger that, thanks for everyone's input. Just put an order in with Pelican for the cover, and I will heed your advice about how to install. Between that and the new carpet and seat upholstery, it should be ready and looking good when the warmer weather arrives (some day -- 2 degrees for a low tonight and 8 inches of snow and still falling; spring is definitely NOT just around the corner here).

Yes, apparently on the East Coast 914 windshields don't ever need a fixin'. I received a quote of $944 to reinstall the windshield. $468 material and $466 labor. And that was the only place that actually quoted me! Everyone else refused to quote. I had one guy come out, take one look at the trim, and say "nope!" So, following the excellent information here and at 914 World and I got the trim out, removed the windshield, and cleaned up everything nicely myself. I've now got the guy who said "nope" agreeing to bring me a windshield (for $200) and place it in for me. I told him I'll handle the trip and cosmetic stuff. I just want a "pro" to make sure it's set properly.

Cleaning up around the frame felt good. Doesn't it just feel better KNOWING something is in good shape, even if you can't see it because it's covered up by something else? Problem with that is now I'm thinking of how much I can or want to clean up in those floor plans and around the seats before I put the new carpet in....

[larrym]

don't forget to replace ALL the plastic clips for the trim

[TheCabinetmaker]

Nice Ghia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[beatnavy]

Hey thanks. The Ghia hasn't gotten much love since the younger, sleeker 914 entered my life last August. Right now it's serving as a place to stack the ever increasing pile of components of the interior as I take them out. What started out as a windshield replacement project has now turned into a floorpan restoration effort. Spent most of this weekend removing tar board and other material.

Good news: I got the tar board out and the pans largely free of junk. More "Good news": looks like I now have an excuse to buy a welder...

May be starting a new thread soon....