dashboard removal on a 50

[Cliff54]

 :'(? Boy I had a tough time just removing the inst. cluster from the dash in my 54. I think the enginerrs at Chrysler worked "real hard" in making the instrument cluster ... well (not to put too fine point on it) "a Bugger-Bear" to work on.? ::)

Cliff54

[David Pollock]

It is possible to insert the windlacing by loosening the dashboard at all attachment points including the steering column brace  which will give some wiggle room. The most difficult instrument cluster to remove is the temperature and ammeter because of all the wiring and the temperature gauge tube. It is possible to leave that particular dial in the car while the rest of the dash is removed. it is also possible to leave the ignition and headlight switches in the car as these push out through the back of the panel. But just to replace windlace, it really is not necessary to remove the dashboard.

[blueskies]

The dash is fairly easy to remove.  Under the windshield trim there are five or six screws that hold the top edge of the dash to the body.  There are a couple at each end of the dash, underneath on the sides.  There is a brace that runs from the firewall to the back bottom edge of the dash, and is most easily removed by taking off the nut on the engine side of the firewall.  And, lastly, the steering column is mounted to the bottom of the dash.  Once all of these screws and bolts are out, the dash is free to move about.  To move very fay, of course, you would need to remove the cap tubes to the oil pressure and temp guages, and wiring.

Here's a few pics that may be of some help.

Pete

[Edwin K.]

I am in the process of replacing the windlace in my 50 club coupe. It is firmly trapped by the sides of the dashboard. It appears that I need to loosen the dash and move it up or toward the rear of the car. A small amount of movement should do it. I don't want to disconnect the gauges and wiring. Would like some advice from someone who has removed a dash before?what to do and what to avoid.