Recently, we showed the process for installing a dashpad in a '65 or '66 Mustang. This time, we're switching to the larger pads used in the ever-popular '69 and '70 Mustangs. Original pads and old replacements commonly crack in the radio-speaker area, making for an unsightly appearance.
Although a more expensive investment (around $300-$400 in most cases) at Mustang parts houses, they're easier to replace than the early '65-'66 counterparts. Mustang Country International-where we went for expert interior-installation experience-was no exception to the rule.
We were in and out of Mustang Country's shop in about two hours for the work on Bill Downing's super-clean, 351 Cleveland-powered '70 Mach 1. The replacement is a simple job, removing about 25 screws, a few trim pieces, and reinstalling the new pad.
Bill's '70 is a factory A/C car, so we'll also look at removing the original A/C vents and reinstalling them in the new pad-also a minor task.
Though it's easy enough for most enthusiasts, this job makes a big difference in these cars. Since the pad is so large, it's a major focal point in '69-'70 interiors.
 The interior in Bill Downing's...  The interior in Bill Downing's '70 Mach 1 was already nice to begin with, but as you can see, a new dashpad is a big-ticket item in these cars in terms of front-and-center appearance. In addition to shop expertise, Mustang Country also supplied the new pad for our installation. The company has a full selection of new and used parts for its brisk walk-in business. |  The removal of '69-'70 pads...  The removal of '69-'70 pads is a matter of detaching several screws, so trick tools aren't required. We began by taking out the plastic end caps on both sides. There are also screws on the bottom of the end caps. |  When the screws are removed,...  When the screws are removed, the caps come right off. Now is the perfect time to repaint them, if needed. |
 The screws located under the...  The screws located under the caps hold the pad in place at the ends. These are the next to be removed. |  Bill's car also has a factory...  Bill's car also has a factory console. Only the top part of it needs to come off, a procedure that involves detaching the two screws that hold it in place at the back. |  With the screws removed, this...  With the screws removed, this section of the console lifts out. This piece only needs to be moved far enough out of the way to access the radio plate. |
 The radio plate is next. Remove...  The radio plate is next. Remove the knobs and the plate's screws. |  The plate comes out as shown,...  The plate comes out as shown, but the radio can remain in place. |  Next, remove the pair of trim...  Next, remove the pair of trim caps on either end of the radio head unit. Take out a couple of screws for each one, and they drop right off the dash. |