Topic: Dash Pad Installation - June 68 Mustang Fastback San Jose

[bullitt68]

Just text fitting my original dash pad which has been sitting on a shelf for the last 4 years approx. Just curious when is the best time to install it, before everything else in the dash or after, just before glass. The area on top of the radios speaker is loose and sagging. Is this normal or is there a trick to making it stiff and flat. I have another original dash pad which is in better shape in that area, but not as nice everywhere else. This one has been dyed and looks pretty good overall except for that area. I would like it to look tight and crisp, assuming they looked good new.

[CharlesTurner]

Originals were usually attached across the top edge with about 4 phosphate flat washer head screws.  These are installed before the painted moldings. 

Also, on a '68, there is normally a notch in the dash pad around the VIN plate.

It's fine to install the dash pad before or after the front glass goes in.  On 67-68, I prefer to do it before glass as it's easier to install those screws that go in first.  I'm not sure if all cars got those, but I've had original pads that had the extra holes in the pad.  Check to see if your car has extra holes across the front in the metal that don't line up with the painted strip screws.

Haven't seen a speaker section collapse like that.  I always store dash pads top facing down on a flat surface.

Original dash pads should have a dull/satin finish.

[bullitt68]

Originals were usually attached across the top edge with about 4 phosphate flat washer head screws.  These are installed before the painted moldings. 

Also, on a '68, there is normally a notch in the dash pad around the VIN plate.

It's fine to install the dash pad before or after the front glass goes in.  On 67-68, I prefer to do it before glass as it's easier to install those screws that go in first.  I'm not sure if all cars got those, but I've had original pads that had the extra holes in the pad.  Check to see if your car has extra holes across the front in the metal that don't line up with the painted strip screws.

Haven't seen a speaker section collapse like that.  I always store dash pads top facing down on a flat surface.

Original dash pads should have a dull/satin finish.

Yes my pad has a notch cut out for the vin. This pad has been dyed. Not sure if I can use a satin dye on top to dull it down. I also just cleaned it with vinyl cleaner as it has been in the rafters for 4 years. Might dull down if I wash it with soap and water. I will compare this pad to what I believe is my original pad or at least the one that was in my car. I will check for the holes etc. Thanks for the great answers

[midlife]

I've heard that one way to dull a shiny painted surface into a matt-like appearance is to rub it vigorously with a grocery store paper bag, obviously cutting it up.  Can't hurt to try it...

[bullitt68]

I've heard that one way to dull a shiny painted surface into a matt-like appearance is to rub it vigorously with a grocery store paper bag, obviously cutting it up.  Can't hurt to try it...

Interesting, thanks I'll try that