Does anybody know if the dash metal surround on these cars has any welds, or if they are just bolted in? I see some bolts on the dash top near the pillars, but I haven't looked up underneath yet. Hoping I can just unbolt this whole unit and remove it in one chunk.
This probably something you already knew, but, there is no disassembly detail in my '61 service manual. My service manual only says:
"The instrument panel cover assembly is secured to the upper instrument panel by cement around the entire outer edge and around the radio speaker grill area. The radio speaker grill also assists in securing the cover to the panel at the grill."
My Canadian GM parts manual didn't show an exploded or isometric view of the dashboard, but did indicate separate part numbers for the upper instrument panel, lower instrument panel, and left and right end panel.
Looks a bit tricky. Got what looked like all the bolts out, and it wouldn't come. Ended up taking the instrument cluster out complete, but leaving the metal surround in. It's very solid around the top. Appears to be spot welded around the leading edge at the top of the firewall. Unless I'm missing something.......which is entirely possible.