Adhesive for a w123 dash

[JHZR2]

Hi,

I got a coverlay a few months back for my cracking dash. Im really glad because that last cold spell we had really did my dash in!

My problem is that the coverlay certainly is not a precision molded item. Sure, they look pretty good when on there tight and right, but when its proper over the gauges, it pops out around the glovebox, and when thats tight it sits really high at the top by the windshield, and so on.

Fearing this, I chose to not use the supplied glue that came with it. I like the idea of always being able to remove it when I want without ruining it and/or the dashboard.

I was doing well by using some gum artist's erasers wedged between the top of the coverlay, and the windshield, in the little groove. If I wedged the front end in tight enough, around the glovebox and stuff, it held pretty well for a while.

But going over bumps and stuff always did it in, and Id be fixing it after a few days, especially when it gets cold.

So I need an adhesive that will stick to the w123 dash. What I have been doing is using 2x2 inch squares of velcro, placed in selective problematic spots. The problem is, the velcro sticks great to the coverlay, and great to its opposite piece. But it is a very poor stick to the dash.

With it attahced well, it really makes the coverlay stay well, but then with the cold, etc., the velcro attached to the dash pulls up, and were back to square one. The adhesive on all the various brands of velcro that I have found, really suck.

So, any suggestions for a good adhesive to attach the velcro to the dash with? It can be reasonably permanent, but for my own anal reasons, Id like to be able to get it cleanly off with a razorblade.

I know something really good exists, because the PO had something attached to the dash with really strong adhesive strips. They were really great, because Ihad the wortst time getting them and the bracket they held on off when I wanted to install the coverlay.

Any info would be most appreciated.
Thanks,

JMH

[prb51]

3m makes a two sided tape used for applying exterior/interior trim. I use it on a great deal of stuff. It holds fast but can be pulled off. Would work perfectly in your application.

[franklyspeaking]

I attached my coverlay with RTV. So a dab of RTV probably would hold the velcro in place as well. The thinking of most the forum members is not to glue it down, but mine is secured so well, you have to look pretty close to tell its not the real thing. 'Can't imagine why you would not want it glued it down.

the guy that does my convertible tops and upholstery installed my 123 dash overlay for about $30...he did a really good job, used strong adhesives and clamps and let the installation "cure" before proclaiming the work done.

[Jorn]

When you glue it use towels and large A- clams. Use the towels to stuff it between the front window and the dash, so it will press the cover. Use the A-clams for the side's, the vent holes and the dash compartment. And then put weights on the top. I know it's there and can see the flaws, but for others don't see it.

Use only A-clams with the plastic cabs and put something soft between it to protect the cover!

[BoostnBenz]

I've read at manufacturers' sites before that you are supposed to use silicone (RTV should suffice) but they emphasized that the location is critical. The one I was thinking of I believe was coverlay, seems like it has a lifetime warranty for the original purchaser however this is void if they adhered it in to many locations. From what they claimed by using to many dabs of silicone on the dash the dash cover will crack just as bad as the original did due to the exanding and contraction of the material.