Hello, I am looking to replace the dash pad for my 1971 Ranchero. Does anybody have any reccomendations on what to get? I have only found pads and covers for sale on eBay and am not sure what is the smart buy. I am more inclined to buy a new pad instead of a glue-on cover. Are there any online stores that sell these aftermarket pads, and if so what do you recommend? Thanks
Here are a couple options. http://www.dashpadpros.com/1970-71-FORD-TORINO-RANCHERO-BLACK-DASH-PAD-STEEL-CORE-1970-71tor.htm https://www.ebay.com/itm/1970-71-FO...=item3b21863bf5:g:C3cAAOSwMHtbfy9F:rk:16:pf:0
I got the plastic glue on cover, because when I needed a good one there were none available. Now that I see they are $400, I think I'll keep the glued on one. Nobody can really tell.
Thanks Huevos and TD... I was wondering about those "plastic" ones and how they looked. I'm still curious about the pricy alternative... Anyone???
The more expensive dash pads look just like the OEM. If you want it to look correct, that is the way to go.
I think my install of the cover was easier because the dash was out of the car, and I was able to really clamp it on there, and then put the whole thing in our environmental chamber, set to 120. If figured the heat would help cure the adhesive. For sure. I'll do that the next time I have $400 laying around. But then I'll have to find a spot for the tach.
That is an, emmm, different way to install a tach. You couldn't find a location that was more destructive, odd, and more out of line of sight? The faux stick shift fits right in, but shouldn't it have an 8 ball for a handle and have fuzzy dice hanging over it? That way, everything would come together, including the 'short arms' deep dish steering wheel.
Not picking on it. It's eclectic, not everything needs a theme or any continuity. Kind of like how some modern art assembles a bunch of things that don't belong together to make a statement. Anyway, the car does have a nice paint job.
Your dash pic got me thinking about my options... don't be sorry. Also, I'm not great at social anything, I guess you could call me socially challenged. It was just a poor attempt at trying to be funny.
Back on topic, I think I would prefer a whole dash to a cover. I wonder how yours would have come out if you didn't have the ability to roast it in an environment chamber? Good enough for a 'daily driver'?
Yup, as a person gets old, their skin gets thin. Those new Rascals are pretty sporty, they even come in rag top. https://www.progressmobility.com/mobility-scooter-canopy.html Don't feel bad Sean, everyone turns old sooner or later, it just hit you a little sooner than most.
From what little I know of Sean's Dad, it took some huge stones for him to give up driving. Don't know how I'll take it when my day comes. I kinda' like where the tach is, reminds me of the Cyclone.
Bitter sweet, it's terrible when age gets in the way of life, I hope that you got the Ranchero back and that you can give your father many rides.
Now, that is the way to do it. Everything is in the execution. One in a hood bump is good, one just bolted on top of the hood, not.
As for the tach in the dash, if it is angled toward the driver, I kinda like the cyclops look. Good use of wasted space not much difference looking at that or the rear view mirror.