We noticed while we were assembling the chromed plastic bezel to the speedometer assembly, that a couple of the screw holes in the bezel didn't line up with the ones on the metal housing. A quick call to Ausley's confirmed that some of the early production pieces suffered from this problem, and that it had been corrected on current versions. They sent us a new bezel, and, sure enough, everything line up perfectly.
One of the most time-consuming tasks was cleaning up all the bright trim. A previous owner smoked in the car, and a yellow film had attached itself to virtually everything. We sprayed 409 cleaner on everything to loosen the grime, then followed with a cleaning using 0000 ultra-fine steel wool. Finally, we used Simichrome polish (but any quality metal polish should do) to add some more shine as well as protection.
Now is also the time to repaint or dye your dash housing and dash pad if they need attention. Since our dash assembly was in nice condition, we rubbed it out using a fine polishing compound, then finished it off with a coat of wax. Once you're completed with your dash restoration, simply reinstall it by reversing the disassembly sequence. We think you'll agree the end result is.... Simply Dashing!!!
1. All trim pieces should be cleaned with 0000 steel wool after a soaking spray with 409 or a similar cleaner. You'll be amazed at how nice everything looks once the grime is gone!
2. We began our assembly process by attaching the 'wood' strip bezel at the top of the dash assembly. special nuts come with large washers, and are tightened with a nut driver.
3. Next, we replaced our faded above-the-glovebox bezel with a new piece from Ausley's. As you can see, special retainers are used here, along with extra caution not to over-tighten the screws. Remember, they're attaching themselves to PLASTIC mounts.
4. Controls for the lights, wipers, ignition and cigar lighter were installed next. The button above the thumb releases the light switch plunger when it's depressed.
5a &b. The misalignment of the early speedometer bezel is easily seen here. By elongating the holes in the metal housing, however, you can make it work. Our second photo, however, shows how the current bezels line up properly with the housing retainer screws.
6. With our speedometer assembly back together, we re installed it in the dash. Be sure to attach the ground strap assembly to ensure proper operation of the dash light and instrumentation.
7a & b. The air conditioning outlets were installed next. While the chromed metal center outlet cleaned up fine, we replaced the plastic outer outlets and sealing felt with new items from Ausley's. The plastic housings were also re painted to match the dash.
8. Here's a quick trick; our ashtray mounting screw holes had become stripped and pulled through from over tightening. simply tap the metal back into shape, and the hole is once again capable of retaining a screw.
9. We re installed our glove box latch mechanism using the snap-ring pliers again, using pressure exerted to the inside of the the threaded, octagonal-shaped nut. Be sure to depress the button to allow as much access to the nut as possible.
10. To complete the restored, original appearance, we re installed the original AM radio. This rear support bracket will help keep the radio from stressing our new radio bezel as well as preventing unwanted squeaks and rattles.
11. Our completed dash assembly is now ready for reinstallation.
Trust us, the photos might show some of the improvements, but to fully appreciate how good it looks, you have to see it for yourself!!!
