Just got a new dash but don't want it to crack like my old one any good Ideas to stop it from doing that I was thinking a dash carpet but don't know we're to get a good one

 

I just ordered one,waiting for it to come in.
I don't know if it will stop cracking,but it sure will help with keeping the sun off it.
http://www.dashmat.com/

 

Dashpad will help for sure.

Also,make sure to apply Mink Oil to the dash to keep it from drying.

 

Use good interior cleaners and protectants on it as well. I've found Mothers VLR (vinyl, leather, rubber) works great on it, and keeps it nice and soft and keeps its natural shine quite nice.

 

dash pads, proper care and windshield covers when you have to park in direct sun.

 

I think UV is the biggest enemy followed by heat and dryness. Combine those with age and "CRACK!" Keep the UV off as much as possible. Garage, covered parking, windshield cover/reflector, Dashmat, and a quality protectant. I like Aerospace 303, but it's not cheap. I also like Vinylex by Lexol. Both can leave a bit of a shine though. I'm not a fan of greasy Armor All.

 

There was a gentleman that owned an upholstery shop recommended lotion, with SPF protection. He said several times if it's good for your skin, it's good for vinyl, leather.

 

i use black magic for UV protection and Mink oil to keep it soft(mink oil will rejuvinate all of the vinyl rubber and plasic in your car), I've had the car since 2007, no issues so far

 

Never heard of using mink oil prior to this thread. Interesting...

 

I was shocked the first time I used mink oil on my interior and exterior rubber and vinyl, it literally seems like the parts are drinking the oil and they look amazing afterwards

 

Does it leave an oily residue after ?? Like if you run your hand over the dash will there be residue on it ???

 

Definitely a sunshade for the window when parked. If I don't use one, even with a dash cover, the dash gets too hot to touch comfortably...

 

I never heard of using mink oil before either. Any specific brand etc.?

I saw it sold as a shoe conditioner but not sure that's what you guys are talking about.
Ie. http://www.target.com/p/kiwi-mink-oi...n/-/A-13290976

 

Air Blue 80% windshield tint.....43% heat rejection, 99% UV reduction.

 

I have used a dash cover on my Camaro since I got it in 1991. My first one was the velour style with a foam backing. It lasted about 17 years before it disintegrated. I have the indoor/outdoor carpet style now. I also use a convertible interior cover and car cover. Dash is still crack-free.

Lon

 

I just got one last week from http://api.viglink.com/api/click?for...38255036248110
It didn't fit(too short),their sending another one out this week.

 

Exactly, you will find a small tin of it where the shoe polish is, about $5, it's a leather conditioner but works wonders on vinyl,rubber and plastic too

 

Thank you!

 

Get a custom fit windshield shade. Protects the dash as well as the seats, steering wheel, etc. And you don't have to stare at an ugly dash mat while you're driving.

 

UV rays are what kills dash pads. Mink oil works OK but it has lanolin and waxes in it.

Instead, I use K-Y jelly. Don't laugh Gents, its water based and easily removed with a damp cloth. Its a 'ole trick the Vette guys use.

BTW, anyone interested in a NOS Camaro pad still in the original GM box?

 

82Z, How much do you want for the Camaro dash pad?

I'm ticked at myself. Just rebuilt my transmission and driving around with a pressure gauge connected to watch line pressure. The gauge and hose set has a big fat quick connect right at the gauge. With the length of the hose being just enough to clear the window, the quick connect rests against the corner of the dash. I didn't realize until too late that when I closed the door, the quick connect got caught between the door and dash pad. The pressure against the pad cracked it like hard plastic and left a spot of missing vinyl.

The car is driven about 3,000 miles a year and stays under a custom cover in the garage the rest of the time. I've had it since 98 and the dash pad, though it has a small stress crack just from old age on each end corner, was always just about perfect. Now, thanks to my own carelessness, it's damaged.

 

doc, send me a PM and we'll talk.

 

ASE doc - PM sent.

 

dont punch it lol,,i have never had a problem with dash cracks and mines factory just take care of it.

 

ssshhh,don't jink yourself!!!!

 

I have a dash cover on mine, the previous and only owner before kept it on since he bought the car. The dash is still like-new due to having the cover on it.

 

My car spends 80% of its time in a garage under a custom car cover. The dash pad has always been perfect but for one tiny crack on each end right at the corner. These tiny cracks have been there since I bought the car and haven't grown at all, so I don't sweat them. The only damage to the dash, I just did with the trans pressure gauge. I have since devised a better way to route the gauge and hose so that this kind of thing won't happen again. I will probably just use some clear adhesive of some sort to seal up the damaged area for the meantime while I consider my options on a more permanent repair. The damaged area is tiny. Unless you know it's there, you would never see it.

My car needs some minor body repair and paint. That will continue to be more pressing than the dash issue. Overall, the car is in excellent condition. It is nearly a mechanical masterpiece. Just a bit more work to be complete and I am never shy to show it off at local street rod events. I built the car to drive, not to be a show queen. It will always have rock chips in the lower valance due to the low ride height and my tendency to enjoy windy back roads and it's very quick 50-100mph acceleration.