On my "new" used 83 F-100, I just attempted to remove the A-Pillar trim for a refinishing.......Wouldn't ya' know it....... Ford makes it nearly impossible to remove.

It appears I have to first remove the entire dash pad before I can access the lower screw and get the pillar out......the pad also holds the trim down as well.

I could use some instructions on just how to remove the old dash pad......Figured I'd better ask you'se guys who know before I ruin somethin'.

Any takers ??? Thanks guys. The site's been great so far.

 

You should be able to get that lower screw out. Either way, the dash pad comes off easy, just look for the screws, there are 2(I believe) in each vent opening, 3 in the instrument cluster trim, 2 in the radio trim, and 3 or 4 above the glove boassuming they are all still there.) Once you get the screws out it lifts off nice and easy. If it's a Non a/c truck you have nice easy access to everything behind the dash, and it's what makes the 80-86 probably my favorite interior ever.

 

Just make sure you don't drop and screws into the heater vents.

 

Well, it IS an A/C truck, and brother it's COLD......All redone in there.......I guess I'll get out my magnet as a safeguard to catch the little buggers.

Thanks for the quick heads up on this....................

And a question........Has anyone used one of the new dash pad "caps" for this truck?? I'm wonderin' how they actually fit over the old ones....pretty good?

I've done some Mopars with caps and they've been a nice clean fit.........

 

What about this windshield trim (painted steel piece that holds the pillar trim on the top of the windshield).......It is ON there.......Any particular tip on getting the "clamps" to let go properly so you don't bend or trash them?

 

Well, I didn't hear back in time to thwart my lack of patience, SO I just yanked my wrists off and pulled the windshield trim down. The clips are OVERKILL just a little bit.......bout a half inch little bit.........They were TIGHT.

At any rate, The dash pad, pillar trim and windshield trim are history......cleaned, degreased, scuffed, prepped and painted a new deep turquoise color to match the carpet and custom seat cover that I'm having made by my friend in Port Richey.

Last night, I woodgrained some areas with custom cut and routed pine pieces, and refinished the door panels and kick plates.

This interior is gonna be 50's-ish, with a modern 'conversion' flair when it's done.

Thanks for the help so far guys. (I've still had no luck posting pics....sorry).

 

Hey, Tom,

This might help ya with pictures:

User Gallery & Picture Display Help - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

 

Might as well sign on as a site supporter.......Just the little help I've gotten so far has been worth the membership fee........

I'll see if I can post some pics of the progress in a new thread next week.....Right now I have to get to Orlando..............Thanks again for the help guys. Doc

 

I looked around and decided to but a dash cap from Coverlay Mfg in San Angelo, TX. A bit more expensive but made in USA and has a lifetime warranty. I feel like it is a better fit and quality than my buddies from another manufacturer.

I chose the dark blue and then painted to match the rest as I rehabilitated the whole interior with Rustoleum Med. Blue interior paint . Looks awesome

 

That future Ford owner looks real happy behind the steering wheel.

 

i realize this thread is a couple years old but wondering how that dash pad cap is working out for you. also i've heard that the cap covers up all the screws that hold the original dash pad in place meaning u couldnt remove your dash without ripping up the cap. any truth to that?

 

I don't know about the others, but my Coverlay cap does allow access to the screws. I really like it, but if I had to put it on again I'd probably do so when the pad is off the truck to make it easier.

 

How is the cover lay installed? Just glued on?

 

Disregard that I just looked at the website and saw install instructions. But I saw that they only list them fitting the bronco. Is that what you got or were you able to find one for your truck?

 

I bought mine via Bronco Graveyard and it is listed as fitting both Broncos as well as the pickups.