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Dash interchange???

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Hi all!

Got a question about the dash. I have a 68 sprite and don't really like the padded dash. It's cracked and nasty looking. Does an earlier metal dash interchange? Has anyone done this before. Just like the look a little better. Anyone know whats under that padding? Take it off and paint it?


Thanks,
 
My PO made one out of wood. I stripped it all out this winter and was going to re-do a stock dash but then decided the wood was too cool and redid that instead.
You can make one of a hunk of wood pretty easy. If you like the look.
dash.jpg
 
Hi There jvandyke,

I like your steering wheel. Where did you get that one? What size is it also?

Thanx, Russ
 
They can interchange but you need to make sure you get all of the trim strips and clips. The other issue is steering column, your '68 like mine has a collapsible column and key is on the column not on the dash like a '67 and earlier. You can change out the column but then you've got this spear aimed at your chest.

Two things a dash pad is available that covers up the cracked dash and now MOSS is offering a fiberglass dash. I've got a prototype of the fiberglass dash in my garage that I bought years ago and will eventually install. Other projects always come first as I know it is a PITA to get the old dash out and all parts and pieces swapped over.

Others have done this and again not all that challenging as long as you've got small hands or can hire a local MOWOG to get it all back in place.
 
I have seen a couple of very nice BUGEYE dashes covered with 1/8" veneer. I plan to do one myself, but is way down the list of priorities.
 
toysrrus said:
Hi There jvandyke,

I like your steering wheel. Where did you get that one? What size is it also?

Thanx, Russ
Click to expand...

PO's PO put in on in '87. From VB, cost $250ish back in the day. I think it's 14" Motolita copy. I had to mod the surround to get the hornpush to work the horn again...it did for a while.
Trouble with a lot of wheels I think is the spokes cover the gauges. I was going to rotate mine to have the spokes at 45 until I realized I wouldn't be able to see the tach or the speedo then.
 
jvandyke said:
until I realized I wouldn't be able to see the tach or the speedo then.
Click to expand...

but officer, I had no idea I was going that fast, I couldn't see the speedometer - :whistle: - worth a try
 
That's a very cool looking wood dash. But I sort of suck at woodworking.
 
RUSTYIRONWORKS said:
That's a very cool looking wood dash. But I sort of suck at woodworking.
Click to expand...

Me too, but even I could have made this one, 1" slab of oak. Cut holes where you want them (now is the time to redesign the MG dash to your liking). Sand, stain urethane. Mine is held on by two angle brackets on either end, that's it, it's a tad wobbly but doesn't shake or move under use. Making the lighting work for the fuel gauge and oil/temp gauge took me a bit. Counter sink the holes on the back since the threaded ends won't reach all the way through 1". brackets on the gauges have to have their "arms" chopped way back too.
I think it fits the "old school" look of my Midget, with the spokes and luggage rack. Looks a bit classier I think. It's breathtaking to have the setting sun hit that wood while cruising at that time of day, just amazing.
 
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