1980 Dashboard replacement

I'm getting ready to order a new dashboard for my 1980 vette.  I have not replaced a dashborad yet, and was wondering if anyone has and if so what to look for and how long it took you to finish the job and can I expect any unforeseen issues?  

Dan...Have you replaced your dash board yet? I replaced mine and had to return the first 2 I recieved as they did not fit for nothing - the openings for the vents were undersize - the speakers did not fit..If I could have repaired my original dash I would have - I have pictures if you require them  

Hello Dan
rich4809 is right, only buy your dash from a high end parts suppler like Ecklers or Corvette America for the best fit. If you have never done it before it should take a good 6 to 7 hours. Its not hard just a lot of screws to remove. At are shop we can replace one in about two hours. If you need step by step instructions let me know.
David Steele  
Your One Stop Corvette Shop!

Dan, How is your dash replacement coming along? did you do any customizing or did you stay stock?  

Hello David,

I am wondering if you might mind giving me some step by step for dash replacement...  I am in Tokyo, I bought a 1980 vette and the interior needs a lot of TLC...  As a short term solution to the awful faded red or wine (not really sure anymore) interior I have taken out all interior trim and used a spray dye designed for these things...  It actually looks pretty good, like new "almost" but I still need to do the dash...  I saved it for last because the car will be undrivable while the dash is out and I want to put everything back in at once...  I ordered repair/restoration books from Amazon.com but since this is Tokyo it will take about 3 weeks to get these books...  I am ready to do this now...
I want to remove dye and replace the same dash...

Later I will be ordering all new interior parts or making new ones myself out of carbon fiber...  I have removed dashes on other cars in the past, they are all different and always a pain in the butt... usually those hidden screws drive nuts...  So I was hoping to get some help before I embark on this...  I plan to set-aside 2 days for the whole removal, dye, reinstallation process (with a lot of wait for it to dry time)  I have also ordered all new interior screws for everything just to be sure...

If you can help, I would be greatful...  You mentioned your shop...  what area are you guys located in?

Thank you for your time and consideration...  
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NO! I am not paranoid! THEY really ARE after me!

Hello
I will take some photos monday and post them with some tips on the easy way to do it. We have 1981 thats going back together next week. New dash, carpet ,door panels every thing new. Photos of this will help you.
David Steele  
Your One Stop Corvette Shop!

Where are you located. I have a 1981 Vette that has a small crack in the dash. I was severely injured at work. I used to be able to do jobs like this. Is it possible to fix a very small crack? I have lots of work for a good and fair shop If anyone knows of a Corvette repair place near Disneyland in Orange County Cal. I would appreciate any info. The crack is so small I would think by now there is a way to fix dash material like leather or vinyl.I just bought the car and want to keep it as original as possible except the radio.
Thanks for any help  

My crack was so small i just bought a dash carpet cover.
I cant see spending a bunch of money for a 2" crack.  
Vettes forever

Hello, I too have a corvette undergoing dash renovation. Actually it's getting a lot more than a dash cover. Anyway if you took those pics and are into sharing them along with any tips to re-enserting my dash i'd be very thankful. Does your shop have quality used parts?