W126 Dash Removal Possible After Dash Cap Installed? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

gmercoleza · #1 06-23-2006, 08:41 AM

I have a dash cap installed and want to remove the dash to access dash pods and evap. I know the only way to remove the dash cap is to destroy it, which will cost me $75 to replace. I don't want to do that.

Can anyone tell me if it's possible to remove the dash once a cap has been installed? The cutout for the speaker grills is smaller than the grills themselves, so removing the grills is impossible without removing the dash cap. Do those grills need to come out to access any mounting screws?

TIA

TX76513 · #2 06-23-2006, 08:56 AM

The coverlay cap only has you apply the adhesive to select areas and is easily removed especially on a hot day. Start at one corner and work your hand underneath the cover moving to the other side. You will need to remove excess glue from both the dash and cover before re-install with RTV.

gmercoleza · #3 06-23-2006, 09:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TX76513

The coverlay cap only has you apply the adhesive to select areas and is easily removed especially on a hot day. Start at one corner and work your hand underneath the cover moving to the other side. You will need to remove excess glue from both the dash and cover before re-install with RTV.

Have you actually done this before, or do you know someone who has done it without breaking the dash cap? It came with a tube of silicone which I used - silicone makes a very tough bond.

TX76513 · #4 06-23-2006, 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gmercoleza

Have you actually done this before, or do you know someone who has done it without breaking the dash cap? It came with a tube of silicone which I used - silicone makes a very tough bond.

Yes I pulled a Coverlay cap off the SD as the previous owner did not do a good fit job when he installed. Just arm youself with a small putty knife on the hand that is going underneath. If the installer covered the entire cap in glue you could have your hands full.

gmercoleza · #5 06-23-2006, 09:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TX76513

Yes I pulled a Coverlay cap off the SD as the previous owner did not do a good fit job when he installed. Just arm youself with a small putty knife on the hand that is going underneath. If the installer covered the entire cap in glue you could have your hands full.

I am the one who installed the cap, just a month and a half ago. I used a thin bead of silicone only along the edges and around vent and speaker holes, just as they specify in the instructions. It's good to know I can remove it. I just hope I don't crack it in the process.

Mike Murrell · #6 06-23-2006, 12:41 PM

What is and where is the "dash cap" on a 126?

Thanks.

gmercoleza · #7 06-23-2006, 12:43 PM

A dash cap is thin molded plastic that you install over a cracked dash to simulate a "new" dash. It matches the contours and color of the original dash.