Does anyone know if there are any places that sell new or reproduction caps that go under the dash and cover the dash bolts? I can't imagine i am the first person that needed a pair of these but I can find no information on the internet about them. If anyone could provide a link or even a GM original part number i would be grateful.

Thank you,

 

You mean the caps on the kneeboard? If so they're specific to 90-92 cars, since that was part of the airbag system. Your best bet would be to try a GM dealer first. Little stuff like that tends to stick around a long time, and they're CHEAP. So cheap in fact that I wouldn't get my shoes dusty walking through a salvage yard for a used set.

 

If my memory is right there was a new set on ebay recently. This was a few weeks to a month ago?

 

I'm curious about how the kneboards are part of the airbag system. I thought it was just coincidence that they changed the dash style at the same time air bags were added.

 

That piece is steel, firmly bolted to the dash frame, and steering column support, and it's padded. It's not simply a cosmetic change. If you look at other cars from the same time period before and after the introduction of airbags, the panel below the dash usually goes through similar changes.

Not only is it padded and heavier, but it also supports and boxes in the steering column. If you read the section of the GM service manual that covers the SRS, it even says that if it's damaged in anyway it should be replaced.

Technically, the 89-earlier Firebird dash would bolt around the airbag steering column just fine. The only reason the switch panel on the Firebird changed in 90 was to accomodate the required knee bolster.

 

That's really cool info! It's rare that I learn something new on this site so it's pretty cool to know that there's still more out there to know about these cars. I noticed how heavy that panel is when I swapped to a 1990 dash, but I like the look enough to make up for the weight increase. It's kind of interesting that they had to brace the steering column to take the forces of the air bag being deployed and taking a hit from your face during an accident.

 

You'd be surprised what you can pick up on reading the service manuals cover to cover. I'll admit it's boring dry reading, but when you've got a few 7 hour rides as a passenger they help to pass the time.

 

I am sorting through the shop manual, nothing yet. Anyone happen to remember the part number?