Any reason to remove Dash pad??

[Dan Stewart]

I tore out my broken windshield and will have to begin my rust repair on the frame. My question is, since i have access to the bolts to remove the dash pad is there anything under there that i should look at while i have the windshield out?

[Tornado230]

Taking the screws out that are under the windshield will not allow you to remove the pad. There are studs on the back with small nuts (on the back side of the dash).
There is no need to remove the pad unless you are going to replace it.
You can easily remove the entire dash once you have removed the windshield, but again, there isn't anything under there worth looking at unless you want to familiarize yourself with the windshield wiper mechanism.

[halftrac]

Dash in good shape with no surface rust? Dash pad not cracked? There are several threads here about removal for mods. The only one who can really answer is you. Do you want to paint the dash? Do you want to change the dash pad? Just a few thoughts in my opinion. I wanted to remove my dash pad, not wanting to remove the window, due to the fact the speaker grill area was cracked. I like the looks of mine without the dash pad and will be easier to paint when it's time to re-do my interior.

[Dan Stewart]

Fortunately the pad is not cracked and is in great shape. I did think bout painting it, but i dont know yet. I have to fix the rust on the frame first, i have to rotted out bottom corners and some on the top edge. Worst rust on th ewhole rig.

[drlocke]

I'd leave it be if I were you.

[threepiece188]

You might want to check the cowl seam sealer that runs across, under the dash. This seam is notorious for leaking and is the bane of many floorboards. Have someone flow water into and all around the cowl vent at the bottom of the windshield while you look for leaks under the dashboard with a flashlight. Removing the dashboard will make any needed repairs much easier.
Dan

[Long&Low]

Yes, a painted dash is much prettier.:)

[Bill Moore]

While you have the window out pull the pad if its damaged and plug the holes
Real jeeps have no plastic