Hello to all here on the techboard, first post but long time lurker lol. Anyways, so I noticed there are next to no discussions about actual dash panels for our cars. Well i'm gonna change that because I am in need of some of you're brilliant thoughts. The challenge I was faced with was finding a new/used (basically anything in acceptably good condition) dash panel for my 88 iroc as mine had cracked down the middle. As you can't buy them online because absolutely none of the online retailers even acknowledge that they exist, I was forced to yank one out of a junk car one of my buddy's had sitting out in a pasture for only god knows how long. Its in pretty good shape considering the sun beat on if forever and there wasn't even a front window in the car I got it from. My question to you is what steps would you take to recondition it and protect it from cracking like my previous one? I've seen some discussions on here about reconditioning some of the plastic pieces around the car but this seems to be a different kind of plastic than the others. Any input would be greatly appreciated! THX in advance!

 

Welcome! Give both sides a hose down and wash well with dish detergent and warm water. Next, go to an auto supply shop and buy some good product. Due to my continued success with their products, I favor SEM. I used their 'plastic prep' and 'gloss black'. I don't have any dash photos, but here's an idea of what the above products did for me:

 

Very nice majobis great information thanks for sharing.

 

Looks good! i'll probably give it a shot. But, has anyone ever used a clear coat on these dashes? and if so how did it turn out?

 

I did use SEM clear coat as well on some - what I consider 'delicate' parts (console lid, dashpad) - but since nothing really comes in contact with the dash, I can't say one way or the other if it would be necessary to spray there.

 

On my dash, I used plastic epoxy to glue abs plastic pieces to the back side of my dash in the areas that are prone to cracking. Despite removing the center support in order to fit my custom center console, the dash is holding up great. I also used SEM Landau Black. Once the smooth parts were hand polished, it's indistinguishable from the unpainted stock parts.

 

Hey All! I just wanted to follow up with this and glad to say it turned out pretty good. Couldn't find The SEM brand paint anywhere in my area so I ended up using Krylon brand (yes found at wal-mart for $4 a can) but here are the results for everyone.
this is the paint i used, just posted a pic so somebody could reference it someday?


This was my test subject lol


and here is the final product...the camera doesn't really do it justice but it looks pretty good in my opinion, if i get a chance tonight i'll try and get a better picture for you all.
Thanks again for all the advice!

 

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Looks much better!!!!

 

I did my dash pad with Landau black. If I didn't tell you you would never be able to tell it was painted. It is a great match to the original black interior plastic trim in thirdgens.
Here is my radio trim painted with it.

 

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I didn't like the texture spray. I used truck bed coating to add texture to parts that I couldn't replace and needed to repair.

 

My dash has also cracked. I am on the hunt for one in decent condition my self. So far the Texas heat has got to everyone that I have found in the wrecking yard so far.

Dang its hard to find.