2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Dash top replacement color

[TURBOs4LIFE]

I have bought the full replacement for the original dash from Genos. It is in black but I wanted to know how it looks in the truck unpainted? My dash now is black but is alittle different black on the replacement. Did anyone have to get it painted to make it look right? Thanks

 

[Texis]

Can't help you on the color issue, my blue one came from Dodge last year. BUT I will tell you about my installation modification.



After pondering the insanity that is our dash (attachment screws from the back side!!!... NUTZ) I cut the thing to pieces with a roto zip and basically broke it all out. Here's what I did on the reinstall:



>I Secured the defrost vent duct in the correct position with electric tie wraps to the steel dash braces.

>I drilled through the new dash piece in 3 places on the pass side (where screw are originally designed to come in from the back)and carefully tapered the holes on the finish side to accept tapered screws head.

>I installed clip-on speed nuts on the steel frame behind the NEW screw locations.

>Installed the dash using the normal screws and installed the pass side dash from THE OUTSIDE... NOT FROM the backside of the dash.



It's sorta hard to explain but the finished results are this:



1) The dash installed in 10 minutes.

2) It will take me 15 minutes to remove the dash and install a new one "when" this one cracks.

3) It is easily removed to access other stuff.



I used stainless screws but you could use black. They are small (no. 6 I think) and flush so most people never notice, or don't know the difference.



I added a pic and if you look at the pass side you can see the flush screws. You can PM me if you have questions. You may not want to make this mod but for me, considering future maintenance. . this was the only way to go.

Good luck.



#ad

 

[TURBOs4LIFE]

That looks great! I would do that if I didnt have to replace my A/C evaporator and heater core! The dash has to be pulled anyways. #@$%! I just want to know if anyone has had their black dash painted to get it to match better.

 

[Texis]

You may be able to get really good results with the spray cans Dodge sells. Take your time and clean the plastic with denatured alcohol before you paint it. I think the only other option is a paint shop.



IMHO if you can live with 3 small flush screw heads showing, I should still make the mods while your at it, considering how easy it could make your life down the road.



I went absolutely nuts when I discovered screws EVERYWHERE that held the top dash piece in place... . and screwed in from the back side!... and are COMPLETELY unaccessible. I was wondering if Dodge drug test their engineers? Of course I understand the assembly line and how assembled modules go together... but that OEM design takes the cake.

 

[Joe Mc]

I have been lucky w/both my evap not going bad and dash not cracking - thus far anyway...

However, on the paint question. I got a tri gauge pod for the a-pillar and wanted it to match the Agate color of my interior. I had to go to the dealer for the spray bomb - it matched great. Geno's now has the MoPar spray bombs for interior colors, Mist Grey, Camel and Agate. I guess if you are looking to go black you'll have to go w/an after-market paint. I've used the Krylon for plastic on a few non-auto related items with excellent results. As mentioned above prep is the key. This project is something you can do yourself no need to pay a paint shop, just go slow with light coats and let them dry well - follow instructions on the can.

The 97 dash that Texis is showing obviously is different than ours and since you have to take it out to do the evap hopefully it'll be easy enough to put the behind screws in.

Sounds like a fun job . . .

 

[Jeff Knight]

When I replaced my dash I mounted the duct work to the dash top before I put it in the truck... Jeff