Padded dash install question
 

I am working on replacing the cracked a worn out dash pad on my 1957 thunderbird.
The dash was not in the car when I got it, so I am unsure of the correct configuration of a bracket.
Where the dash would fasten to the steering column, on the dash panel there is a bracket that crosses the dash that has two holes to fasten it to the under dast where the column attaches. It is made out of a heavy gauge sheet metal.
On mine, on both sides it appears to be bent symmetrically. I am not sure if this is correct, or if it got bent a some point.
Has anyone had one out , even better, have one out ?

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Photos of that dash support bracket for a '57 Bird.
The one you have looks very much like this one except for a slight twist across the top of yours.

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Been a long time, but doesn’t that also anchor the heavy bracket that the pedals hang from? And that is the main structural support?

Re: Padded dash install question
 

The large bracket the pedals hang from is bolted to the firewall and the cowl support. The end closest to the steering wheel supports the steering column and bolts thru that large-ish dashboard bracket. Likely mutually supporting each other.

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Thanks DMSFRR, that is what I was looking for.

I was not sure if the two bends on the side panels were correct.

Before I got this car it had been used as a drag racer. It had, I am told ,a rather large oldsmobile motor installed.

I have been correcting minor issues ever since, frame crossmember, firewall and tunnel sheet metal.

I am still a little gun shy when I see bent sheet metal. Thought I should inquire.

Thanks

Re: Padded dash install question
 

DmsFrr,
I am noting in your photos that the under side of your dash is painted. Mine is not. Did you paint it ,or was painted from the line?

Re: Padded dash install question
 

It's a handy thing to do, makes it easier to see when working under the dashboard. I'm not sure when it was done.
The '55 Bird I have looks to have a thin-ish coat of gray primer on the underside of the dashboard. Photo 1 below.

The '57 was repainted in other colors a few times. The most recent previous owner was returning it to the (nearly) original colors, and he did repaint the dashboard. (photo 2)

I've seen a few other Bird owners comment about painting the underside white so I'll assume it wasn't that way originally. If you do it make sure the extra layer of paint doesn't interfere with Grounding the gauges and panel lights, etc.

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Thank You, mine is just a fine coat of rust on the under side [patina]. It has never been painted. I probably should paint now that it is off.
I do have a new wire loom, and the grounding issue is a concern.

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Kind of OT for this post but - Do yourself a favor and put a couple ground busses under the dash, just like a fiberglass boat or car. Old metal has a lot of resistance in the bolted joints. I usually end up with 2 under the dash (where convenient on both sides) and another in the trunk. Straight to the battery with #8 or #10 wire (depends on the vehicle loads). Then tie what’s needed back to the ground bus. Especially if you get involved in more “street rod” accessories and electronics.

Here’s the Ron Francis version from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Ron-Francis-W.../dp/B00AQM9MTM

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Great idea,thanks.

Patrick

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Along those lines. I will be rewiring the whole car because of so many non factory items. Anyone have experience with the wiring kits out there such as Ron Francis or Painless?

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Where do you buy a new padded dash panel for a 57 Bird, or a 57 Fairlane?

Re: Padded dash install question
 

56sedandelivery. I’m going to start a new thread on the wiring harnesses. Hopefully, you’ll get some more responses than just mine.

Re: Padded dash install question
 

The new thread being located here - https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showt...09#post2089809

(POSTED SO AS NOT TO LOSE INFO)

Re: Padded dash install question
 

I purchased mine thru Hill's auto,for my T-bird.

They had a large assortment of colors.

They do not give them away...........

I use them because there service is good, and they are very helpful. I my case ,that means a lot.

Re: Padded dash install question
 

They seem to have their stuff in a neat pile ...

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Kultulz:

Do you have info on Hill's Auto? Contact info? I have 1957 Ford and looking for a padded dash.

Thanks

Re: Padded dash install question
 

A link to their website...

https://hillsresto.com/

They may or may not be able to get a dash pad for 'full-sized' cars, call them directly and ask.

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Keep an eye out here - https://rhinofabrication.com/12852/

C&G advertises but I would make sure of the quality first.

I didn't know a 57 had a padded dash ...

Re: Padded dash install question
 

Part of safety package ? - started in 56.