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.
Take out the screws that are...
Take out the screws that are exposed once the radio faceplate is removed.
There are six screws directly...
There are six screws directly underneath the top of the pad-three on the passenger side and three directly above the gauge cluster on the driver side.
Remove the line of screws...
Remove the line of screws on the top of the pad where it meets the windshield.
With all the screws removed,...
With all the screws removed, the pad can be lifted out of the car.
Our subject car is factory-equipped...
Our subject car is factory-equipped with air conditioning, so the vents from the old pad need to be removed and transferred to the new one. This is a relatively easy job, as the duct is held in place with small plastic clips that are taken off to allow removal of the duct from the pad.
Once the clips are removed,...
Once the clips are removed, the duct comes right off.
One small clip on the inside...
One small clip on the inside of the air vents holds it in place on the pad. Remove it and the vent piece is easily detached from the old one.
Installing the new pad is...
Installing the new pad is a reversal of the old one's removal. This includes reinstalling the A/C vent and duct (if applicable); placing the pad in place; and reinstalling the screws, trim pieces, and radio plate. It's a straightforward job that can be done in an hour or two.
Pads for '69 and '70 Mustangs...
Pads for '69 and '70 Mustangs are the same. The only difference is whether its for an A/C-equipped car, such as this one with a square opening in the center for the A/C vent. Be sure to specify when ordering.