Dash pad or window first on convertible?

[Murdlem]

Which should I install first? Dash pad or windshield.
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Eric Meldrum
70 Ghia Coupe
72 Ghia Convertible

[Pat KG]

Eric, I had a broken windshield replaced on my 74 Ghia when it was about a year old. It was done with the dash in place.

[sputnick60]

I'm doing the window first then the dash pad. This dash pad is a new fibreglass and vinyl one and there is no certainty that it will be the correct size in this instance. I've spliced the dash from a RHD car as part of the RHD conversion so there might be a few millimetres error here or there.

If you car is OG and has the original dash then these considerations won;t apply to you and it won't matter too much which is in first.

Nicholas
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66 Ghia Vert - in progress...
"In theory there is no difference between practice and theory. However, in practice there is."

[Murdlem]

I was wondering about the vent plates that are attached with screws. Can you easily install them with the window in?
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Eric Meldrum
70 Ghia Coupe
72 Ghia Convertible

[theadmiral1000]

I was able to remove/install them with the window in by using a screwdriver bit held in a pair of pliers.
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Zach S.
71 Ghia
75 R75/6

[danielsan]

Having tried it both ways with 5 different pads . . .

It is best to install the KGPR pad with the windshield out.

With the other pads -- including stock -- I would do the windshield first.

The difference is the edge that contacts the front seal. The show quality pad edge is stiff and thick -- on the other pads the edge is thin and floppy. On the other pads the edge yields to the seal -- not so on the show quality pad.

Ideally -- with the show quality pad.

1. Remove old pad with old window in car or if the window is out just put the seal in the frame.

2. Use a sharpie to mark the edge of seal.

3. Remove window / seal

4. Install pad -- trim the edge the sharpie line.

5. Install window

[danielsan]

If you have a dash with a floppy edge use this for the vents

[Murdlem]

Thanks. I have a nice new pad, but purchased it from a fellow samba member, not a shop. I will check it for "floppiness".
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Eric Meldrum
70 Ghia Coupe
72 Ghia Convertible

[NOVA Airhead]

I think its easier with the windshield out and plan to do my dash pad and face first before the new windshield and seals on my current project.
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1971 Ghia Convertible Autostick
1974 Thing

[swavananda]

i pre fitted my dash pad with just windshield rubber in place, then removed pad

turned the pad stud holes into 'slots' with a drill/ dremel

then installed windshield. finally the dash pad, the slots give lots more wiggle room and once tightend does not make a difference

i found it much easier/ less stressful, to do the windshield install without the pad in the way.

good luck!

[yorkjj]

I reinstalled my dashpad many years ago after having it restored. I did not take the windshield out and used one of the right angle screwdrivers like the one shown above. However, the edge which goes under the windshield seal was a bit stiff. A LOT of WD-40 softened it up nicely. If you have the chance and the ability to remove the windshield (and get it back in safely and properly), do it. Otherwise, plan ahead, take your time and lubricate the edge and the seal. Hope this helps. Post photos if you can.