1971 Barracuda Dash Pad

[lionberger]

Hi,

I am new to the chat so please forgive me if I make some mistakes.

I have a 1971 Barracuda convertible which I purchased in 1984. It is a driver which was restored in 2011. About the only two things that still need attention are the windshield (no cracks just showing its age) and the cracked dash pad. Replacing the pad looks as if it is a job and a half. There are dash pad overlays available but I am hesitant to buy one until someone who has installed one gives me their feedback.

If anyone has experience with these please help me out.

http://www.1aauto.com/1A/dash-pad-cover/Plymouth/Barracuda/1AIDC00167/229984

Thanks in advance,
Rick

[anlauto]

They look kind of cheesy once installed and can be spotted a mile away...They are, however, a pretty affordable alternative to a ugly cracked dash pad.

[burdar]

Replacing the pad isn't hard.  It's actually easiest if you remove the entire dash from the car.  It sounds like a big job but it's not bad. Personally, I wouldn't waist money on a cap.  I haven't seen one that looks good.  The ones I've seen are way off in the VIN plate area.

[dutch]

welcome 

     removing the dash isn`t that big a job. This link might be helpful.  You can also use search. There are numerous topics on the subject.

http://www.cuda-challenger.com/cc/index.php?topic=34798.0

post up some pics of your car please.... 

[Katfish]

I'll disagree, if you have an AC pad.
I just replaced a covered dash pad with the UR recovered pad and it does not look $800 nicer.
If you prep the pad so the cover lays flat very few can spot it's on there.

All depends what you want and are willing to spend.

[4Cruizn]

Welcome to the site!   I guess the first thing that comes to mind is if you plan to do the pad and the windshield . . . . Try to do them at the same time.  Certainly easier with the glass out of the car either way you do it.  I think it is doable either way . . . . Removing the whole dash or not.   

Also check the interior area of this site as a few members have completed this task and there are threads about this subject!   Hope that helps!   

[drewcrane]

I have done 2 and I LOVE em , they work great and hold up and yes there are some areas that dont look stock at all but for the most part they work , for a fraction of the cost of a new one.

It really depends on if it is a show car or a driver mine are drivers .

And yes you should remove the pad and do it on a bench to make clamping,and working on it much easier

[lionberger]

Thanks for all of your input.  Doing the pad and windshield at the same time sounds like a good idea.  I will search the site for other threads and watch the youtube videos.  Thanks again, Rick

[jimynick]

Welcome to the site Rick. Good luck with your dash project!