1952-59 Ford 56 Dashboard - anything I should know?

I am getting ready to pull the dash out my '56 and thought I would ask if there was anything special I should be aware of before I get into it. You know...don't do this thing or you'll never be able to do that thing...that sort of thing. After learning about the "spear of death" from the steering box thread recently, I am seeing just how much I don't know... Anyway, column is out, have a clutch/brake pedal setup to install since someone cut the clutch pedal off with a torch when they put the 302/C4 in it and was thinking it would be a good time to install the EZ Wire harness and gauges while it's apart. What else would be good to do while the dash is out?

 

You might make the rewire a little easier by labeling the switches with little tabs of masking tape with the part written on it so you don't get anything crossed up,also after you get it out it's a good time to repaint it and take care of any rust issues from moisture around the windshield seal and the heater core.If you are replacing the firewall insulator http://www.cl***icautopartsonlinecatalog.com/WebProject.asp?CodeId=7.4.1.50&BookCode=fsz10flx&from=2 up at the top put in page 200 for a picture, it will be easier with the dash out.Sometimes the old ones will have mildew and mold from moisture in the jute backing and it can make you sick, kind of a "silent" allergy.

 

It would also be a good time if you have the desire to replace your vacuum wipers with an electrical upgrade, to do that with the dash off. It's a lot easier at that time for access. Also be sure to remove any old and unused wiring and replace any dry rotted wires. The dry rotted wires will eventually crack causing shorts or possible fires. My lighter wire cracked and melted all of the way to the firewall.

 

Its a good idea to spray the under side of a dash with rattle can white to make work under there easier in the future.

 

Thanks for the information! I think I will be doing pretty much everything mentioned by you guys! Especially making sure there is no mildew/mold to make us sick when driving. I will try to get some pics together as I progress on this thing. You know, contribute to the group and all that. If I have the dash media blasted and use etching primer from a rattle can then a couple coats of paint from a rattle can, will it be a durable enough finish on the dash?