Dash removal.

[bcgrown]

I had asked a week or so ago about removing the dash on a GW without removing the windshield. Someone wrote back and said it can be done by prying up the weatherstrip with a couple of prybars to acess the bolts. I just want to say thanks, this method allows acess to the bolts. Unfortunately all the bolts in mine were well rusted and didn't want to come out. A couple did but then stopped just before coming out. I created another method to remove them that takes a bit of time, it involves cutting holes in the cowl on the outside to get at the F**king bolts from the other end. Then, with a cutting wheel, cut the bolts as close to the weld nut and then grind the rest to free it. The downside is a really messed-up cowl with all the holes, but it works. Incidently, I am tossing the body so damage was no concern, I just want my dash out. I have a rust free body waiting for parts transferal from my old rusted out hulk. It is nice to know that you can get at the bolts without removing the windshield. Thanks for the info.

[J4GRAND]

That was my advice on the dash removal- I told you it could be done with the w/s in place. Were these bolts or torx bolts? The ones on my 73 were torx and I replaced them with stainless hex head bolts.

[firechero]

so did u have someone hold on the prybars while u unscrewed the bolts?

[bcgrown]

They were torx bolts, at first I thought a T27 but without rust they would be a T30. I was able to get at them myself using the two prybar method, but as you know it takes a skinny torx socket as it can be a bit of a squeeze to get it past the weatherstrip. I just finished completely removing the dash and have come to the conclusion that the dash is not meant to be removed once inst at the factory. I much prefer how easy a modern dash comes out. But they did design it so that any wiring work, HVAC work or otherwise can be done with the dash in place. Thanks again for the info.

[J4GRAND]

Had someone hold the pry bars to get the torx bit and extension on the bolt. Once there, you could release the pry bars and the w/s gasket just rested on the socket extension.

[billybooster]

J4GRAND - nice paint job - may I ask how much it cost (sorry to hijack the post)

[J4GRAND]

I did most of the prep work myself- stripping all the mouldings, door handles, mirrors, etc. and helped sand it down. Had a good friend who owns a body shop do the body work (not much at all) and spray. Cost me $1700 incl. the paint and labor.