Hi All, I have a new set of the woodgrain dash decals that need to be installed. I want to "do it right" so thought I would ask all you experts for your secret tips and tricks to have a perfect install. Also, how can I tell if the decal set I have (came with the car) is the one that allows the dash lights to illuminate the labels? Anyhow, looking forward to reading all your wisdom so I can complete this little project with a professional finish! Thanks
Wow - I can't believe no one has offered up some guidance on installing the woodgrain decal set for the dash. I am hoping to work on it today and I'll check back later to see if someone can offer some good adice on the best way to get a very nice finish! Thanks in advance!!!!
The best repros are made by a Board member here named Greg Setter. Since they are not that expensive I would start by considering whether I had his and if not do I want to get his. I think there are some tips for the install in the past posts here. http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=93593&highlight=woodgrain+dash I would not use an exacto knife as suggested in that post. I would use decal and adhesive remover which you can buy in a spray at Advance auto along with some Q tips starting in a corner. Apply it by the q tip at the decal surface interface unless it is removed. Clean all residue so the surface is smooth before reapplying the new one.
The dash does not have the decals on it currently. But there seems to be a grain/pattern molded into the plastic. In other words it is NOT a smooth surface where the new decals will be applied. Is this correct? I was told by the previous owner that he had ordered and replaced the cluster plastic housing for a new chrome trim finish and had never finished applying the decals. Thanks Jim......as always
If the surface has adhensive on it make sure to get it off first. If the imperfections are in the rechromed surface well your only real choice is to apply it and see how it works. I might lay it out with a light pencil mark or two.
Yes, that is correct. That is the way they were molded. There should be small smooth rectangles where the individual "LIGHTS," "WIPER," ect. decals were installed for non-woodgrain cars.
OK - there is a smooth rectangle on the panel where the dash lights would appear to glow through the plastic to illuminate the decals. The panel is new so there isn't much cleaning to remove old adhesive except around the radio bezel and the heater/vent controls btoh of which have some clean up required. I have some small tweezers that I use to apply apply vinyl graphics to my RC airplanes and plan to use them to help position the decals before "pressing" into place. I'll take some before-and-after pics to share. Thanks
Howdy... On the A-bodies (Skylark/GS), the only area that is backlit is the heater or Climate control piece. The "lights" "washer" "wiper" and "lighter" areas are not backlit. Now, a little secret... when I did my dash kits, I allowed for the non-backlit areas to be backlit if someone took the time to rig up some lights in these areas. They would glow white, while the Climate Control piece has a slight blue tint (just like the factory ones). The removal/install instructions are right on. I would add that if you want to spray a thin film of water on the surface, then place the dash kit, you'll have some time to position. Similar to what you would do with your airplane decals or for applying window tint. Just push out the water when you have it where you want it. One last note - if you hold your heater/ac piece up to the light and the lettering glows light blue, then it's mine. If not, then you have an inferior product! :grin: You can email me if you have any addtional questions or need more info. Thanks, GS
