Naked Dash!

[f85gtron]

Lets face it, Nancy was right. JUST SAY NO (to crack).  Our dashes are brittle and it's time to recover, instead of repair.

First, I solicited the services of a hot stripper!


Then, took it all off!


When doing this, work slow and allow the heat to release the glue and soften the vinyl.  Working slow also allows the foam to stay behind, which is what gives the dash it's shape.

Any recommendations for stitching, pleats, fabric choice?  I'm going to drop it off at the upholstery shop tomorrow.

[GTRS Fiero]

Was it hard to get the center vents out?  I'm sure the vinyl in that area was fun.

[f85gtron]

It kind of rode up in the crack, you know, like floss.
Ha,ha. Just joking.
I removed all the duct work and the defrost grill and vent surrounds. There's not much left after all that comes off.

[Raydar]

I didn't know that was possible, but in retrospect, I could picture that whole process.
But holy freakin' hell, you've got a lot more patience than I do!

I'm tempted to say "naugahyde", but I'm a cretin, that way. Real leather might be a bit more pliable.
Whatever you decide, please post pics.

I think someone sells an entire dash cap, but the original vinyl has to still be there, I believe.

[f85gtron]

Leather probably wouldn't hold up to the direct sun too long. I was thinking vinyl or naga-whatusaid.