Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

I recently removed the chrome dash from my 31 Roadster and had the car painted. I am now having difficulty getting the original ignition switch re-installed in the flange on the back of the dash. It seems that the cable is too short to allow me to get it at the right angle to get it into the flange and install the 3 locking screws. It was in there originally and came apart ok but getting it back in is a real challenge. I don't have the cable fastened down under the head bolt and I have removed the junction box cover to try to get as much slack as possible in the cable but still no go. Is there a trick to this? Should I unscrew the cable from the distributor, pull up some slack, install it in the dash and then screw the cable back in to the distributor before hooking up the speedometer cable and switch and ammeter wires?

Re: Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

I find it easier to assemble the ignition cable and the wire harness to the dash out of the car. Then feed them down through the trough at the bottom of the tank through the hole at the junction box. Then screw the distributor on afterwards. Then put the speedometer cable on before i screw the dash back on.

Re: Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

I do it like 31Tudor.

Re: Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

If you have not done so all ready, disconnect the battery. Use the rubber insulator at the junction box to keep the cable from shorting out the connections.

Re: Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

I did disconnect battery and the rubber insulator is in place at the junction box. I will tackle it again as suggested by 31 Tudor and post how I make out. Thanks.

Re: Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

I have had the dash out several times without loosening the cable neighther at the junction box nor at the distributor. It can be done, but it is a real pain. I might consider loosening the cable next time

Re: Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

Tried a couple of more times to install the switch with the cable and distributor in place. Gave up, removed the distributor and took the cable out of it. Put the switch in place. Now I'll just hook up the wiring and speedometer, re-install the distributor and put the dash back in place. I would do this again instead of trying my "shortcut" method. Not worth the frustration especially when the car is freshly painted. Thanks for all the help.

Re: Chrome Dash Install Problems
 

Right ! Just finished the same job. Give the cable slack ! Simply take the distributor out to give it that slack