Putting it back together, which one first, Dash or AC?

[Kapteenikosmos]

I've started assembling my car back together and I'm moving from the back to front. The back is almost done and I'm moving closer to the firewall and now I'm thinking that I should mount as much as possible on the firewall before I install the engine. I've read from some other topic that the dash assembly should be installed as a whole but when should I install the AC / heater box? Before the dash assembly or after that? Or does it even matter?

 

[Moparinho]

my personal advice is to put all things you can before intalling the dash.  You have to consider that after you install the dash, every work will require

you to stand up-side under tha dash with limited clearance for tools and hands.....

[miketyler]

not sure but the AC box my hinder getting to some of the dash mounts. The AC is serviceable; made to remove without taking out the dash. I would prep the firewall with sound deadener and proceed withthe dash install. The vents will be a MAJOR pain, and should be installed first beforeyou put the dash back in place.

[DAYLEY/CHALLENGER]

I put the A/C Heater box back in first.  Lots easier.................

[Chryco Psycho]

 
 install everything under the dash first

[Kapteenikosmos]

Great, thanks for the info!

I'll install the AC box first and after that the fully assembled dash. I was supposed to install the wiring to the dash last weekend but forgot to take the pics of the disassembly from my computer with me. Well I'll start it next weekend.

[PlumCrazyChris]

I'm at about the same stage.   I installed the A/C first. 

I think the factory service manual has some good images of how the dash wiring is routed.  If you don't have one, I might be able to scan and send it to you. 

Chris

[Kapteenikosmos]

Thanks for the offer! I have a factory service manual for my car but it never crossed my mind that the wiring routes are also there. Well, sometimes it is hard to spot something that is basically in front of your eyes.

Actually it was kinda good that I didn't have them because I managed  to do almost all fuel & brake lines instead of the dash wiring. It's getting cold and because my car is in a non heated barn, it's kinda cold to sit under the car on a plain concrete  Better now than when it is getting really cold.