New dash panel install

[Omie01]

When I put in my first set of aftermarket dash panels, I was frustrated that the new hardware split the little posts when I drove them in and thought, "there has to be a better way!! I read the post about heating the screws up with a soldering iron, but that sounded a little risky to me. So last night I sat down with a drill bit index and matched a drill bit to just under the size of the hardware and drilled the little posts out and "BOOM", it worked!! All the screws went in tight without even cracking the chrome. I also found that the holes were not even the same size when the panels were made, each one drilled differently. Also the passenger side panel has posts for thread cutting speed nuts. These posts are not the same size as the originals, they are smaller so you will have to find some speed nuts that fit. I found a DORMAN assortment pack that comes with 3 of each size, and the biggest ones fit these posts. You can get them on Amazon.com, just search for Dorman speed nuts. Sorry I haven't taken any pics yet, but I will try to get some up. Good Luck! PS: the passenger side heater duct face is really hard to reach the hardware, mount the register face first to the panel, then push the duct work into that. Hope this helps somebody save some money!!

 

[SVO2SCJ]

You should be commended for researching, reading and listening !! (and it wasn't my post) I too "chose to use Repro" panels and had the same issue - saw info here and did the same! Forum's like this can be like a WIKI for info. To the point and searchable.

Mark

P.S. Wait til you get the the "over the glove box" part ......you will be posting THE HEX NUTS SUPPLIED fall right off the posts!! LOL

Such is the issue with repro parts. I don't use them often as every time I do there is some issue!