69 dash order of assembly

[Greg L.]

What have you found to be the best sequence to reinstall the WHOLE dash?

I know the pass side with map pocket should go in last and that the dash pad goes in first but I can't remember if the center gauge panel is assembled to the console and then they are install together OR if the drivers speedo/tach cluster should go in before or after the center gauge cluster???

[Robert S.]

Re: 69 dash order of assembly

Having done it twice on a 74' I think the logical sequence is to install the drivers side panel, then the center stack and center console parts and install the passenger side panel last.

[Alan S.]

Re: 69 dash order of assembly

Hi Greg,
On my 71 I followed the same sequence as Robert.
I got as many screws started in place, on all three pieces, as I could, and then started tightening the screws while holding the pieces and even using some temporary 'shims' to get a good alignment. I found the center gauge bezel to be the most problem since there seems to be a 'warp' in the top third of the bezel. The temptation to try to push it into place will often result in breaking the bezel just above the gauges. You see many, many cars that have this break.
Regards,
Alan

[Jack H.]

Re: 69 dash order of assembly

"You see many, many cars that have this break."

Yep, but the break isn't necessarily caused by assy... There are an infinite supply of 'Bubbas' out there who insist on working on their cars without reading the GM literature!

If you consult the factory's Chassis Service Manual, there's a very clear caution note to the effect the center console bezel was intentionally designed with weak spots to absorb impact in a head-on collision and you need to handle it with care during R&R proceedures...

So, since we see SO MANY cluster bezels cracked at the designed-in weak points, we can safely conclude there are MANY Bubba's out and about!

[Greg L.]

Re: 69 dash order of assembly

Thanks guys, I'll start at the left and work my way to the right then!

I've had mixed feelings over the years when it comes to any service manual in that I feel that in some cases the guy writing the manual has little practical knowledge about the task at hand. Now I know this may seem harsh but case in point is that the service manual makes mention that to remove the center gauge cluster that you need to remove the two nuts at it's base under the shifter console. Unless I'm missing something, good luck with that. The only way I have even been able to do this is by sliding the center gauge cluster and shifter console back as an assembly and only then can I get at those two nuts. The procedure in the manual sounds good on paper but doesn't work in real life...

I try to use good ole common sense and advice from those that have "been there, done that" first and use the service manual for support if needed. Service manuals are good but in some cases they are more of a guide...

[Bill L.]

Re: 69 dash order of assembly

I recently did exactly this on my 70. The real key was to make sure you get that left pad in correctly. It took a while since I also had my wire harness refurbished while the pad was out. It only fits in one way and the trick is to get that harness in just right.

If the pad is in correctly the remainder is pretty straight forward.

When you do put in the center console and gauge bezel, make sure the center console is far enough forward to properly catch the screws that go through the little access panels on either side.

It is also a lot easier to do when it is really hot. The plastic and vinyl will bend and not break! I had to go out and find another original top dash pad when I cracked the covering while bending it to get it back in place. I set the new one in the hot sun to make sure it was good and flexible. Worked like a champ!

Good luck and be patient.


Bill

[Alan S.]

Re: 69 dash order of assembly

Hi Greg,
The way I've gotten at those 2 nuts is with a 1/4" socket and all my extensions, which puts the ratchet in the foot well and the extensions running up under the shifter console between the inside of the side of the shifter console and the carpet. Just removing the two frward trim pads as the C.S.M. says to do, doesn't do it for me either.
Regards,
Alan