How long to R&R your dashboard ?? - Page 3 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Stretch · #31 12-23-2010, 03:55 AM

From what I have seen - my dash is out but I haven't started on the windshield - I would go along with panZZer for the dash out first and then remove the windshield because you have easier access to the windscreen rubbers which might prove to be helpful.

However:-

I don't see why ROLLGUY and whunter say dash first, windscreen second.

What's the reason behind this?

whunter · #32 12-23-2010, 09:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Army

From what I have seen - my dash is out but I haven't started on the windshield - I would go along with panZZer for the dash out first and then remove the windshield because you have easier access to the windscreen rubbers which might prove to be helpful.

However:-

I don't see why ROLLGUY and whunter say dash first, windscreen second.

What's the reason behind this?

Where did you get that from?

Remove the windshield
Remove the dash
Reinstall dash
replace windshield

vstech · #33 12-23-2010, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROLLGUY

I have removed half a dozen 123 dashes, and only removed the 2 column nuts behind the cluster. Never needed to remove the steering wheel. The entire job only takes about 15 minutes. Installing one is another story. It takes at least an hour just to install the dash, not including any repairs underneath (vacuum pods etc.).
Also, if windshield replacement is part of the job, it is best to install the dash BEFORE the windshield (agree with Whunter)

unless Roy starts posting after some SERIOUS egg nogg consumption, it's ALWAYS best to agree with Whunter!

ROLLGUY · #34 12-23-2010, 11:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Army

From what I have seen - my dash is out but I haven't started on the windshield - I would go along with panZZer for the dash out first and then remove the windshield because you have easier access to the windscreen rubbers which might prove to be helpful.

However:-

I don't see why ROLLGUY and whunter say dash first, windscreen second.

What's the reason behind this?

In reality, the order for REMOVING the dash and windshield is really a matter of personal preference (if both need to be done at the same time). If the windshield gasket is as old as the car, then it should be replaced anyway. Many windshield installers will NOT install a new windshield with the 25+ year old gasket. If the old gasket is to be cut out to replace the windshield and gasket, THEN the dash can be removed. The under-dash work can be completed and dash installed, and then the windshield roped in. IMO that is the order the job is best done. I learned the hard way the first time I changed a 123 dash. The windshield was cracked (albeit a small crack) and could be have been replaced, I went and changed the dash without removing the windshield. I ended up making the already cracked windshield worse from trying to get the dash lip under the windshield rubber. If the windshield is good, then extra care needs to be taken when installing a dash. It takes 2 people and at least an hour to do one for the first time. I imagine one can get better and faster with experience and the right tools.