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I’m pulling the trigger on buying Vintage Air setup for my 56. But I don’t want to mangle up my dash. So a filler panel is probably the best way to go for me to mount the ducts. Now for a couple of questions:
1. I tried to search for who if anyone makes a metal panel to no avail. Is there someone that does? Or detailed drawings so I can make or have one made?
2. For those that have them, how does this affect legroom? I’m 6’2” and leg room is a must, especially on longer trips.
I’m pulling the trigger on buying Vintage Air setup for my 56. But I don’t want to mangle up my dash. So a filler panel is probably the best way to go for me to mount the ducts. Now for a couple of questions:
1. I tried to search for who if anyone makes a metal panel to no avail. Is there someone that does? Or detailed drawings so I can make or have one made?
2. For those that have them, how does this affect legroom? I’m 6’2” and leg room is a must, especially on longer trips.
I’d appreciate any feedback!
I’ll be tracking along here. I’m in the same boat. I really wish someone made a panel for AC that looked like it was supposed to be in the truck. Along with controls that complemented the design of the original dash and controls. The vintage air under dash panel looks a bit 70’s to me.
I saw a company that makes a setup that is more appealing in design than vintage air but I haven’t seen it in person in a vehicle. I’ll try to dig up the link.
I have had many under dash panels made, both for my F100s and my 40 Ford, Until my recent move, I lived in close proximity to Direct Sheetmetal in El Cajon, CA. Dave, the owner, will make anything you want...just provide the dimensions. I use 16 ga steel and adjust the height of the panel to match the steering column drop and/or vent sizes.
I have had many under dash panels made, both for my F100s and my 40 Ford, Until my recent move, I lived in close proximity to Direct Sheetmetal in El Cajon, CA. Dave, the owner, will make anything you want...just provide the dimensions. I use 16 ga steel and adjust the height of the panel to match the steering column drop and/or vent sizes.
Charlie do you have a couple of pic of your extensions
Here are a couple of pics of the panel in my buddies 55 truck. He opted to mount the panel with a set back to allow the glove box door some clearance. I am not a big fan of the stereo mount but it works for him.
BTW - this is an OEM seat that was upholstered by the same shop who did the other seat that I have posted showing how a stock seat can be bolstered to look more custom.
BJ , you've seen mine. Its just a piece of 11 gauge sheet metal, 4" deep and ever how long it is from door to column mount. I welded several "L" brackets to mount it to the under side of dash with Tek screws... drilled the holes for switches, a/c and a/c controls. Left of the column is the same.. I've seen some that follow the curve of the dash at the doors and they look nicer than mine because of that detail. I didn't set mine back as much as some since I have no glove compartment door to deal with. Also you can do with thinner stock as Charlie mentioned and it's easier to work. I used what I had on hand. Sorry, I don't have any really god pics of mine
I just used the panel that came with the kit.
Its not the cleanest looking, but it works.
It is flimsy plastic piece so I added some braces to it to strengthen it.
I also painted it with a semi-flat black paint because I didn't like how glossy it was.
Another thing to consider is if you want to retain the stock cowl vent lever. I did, so thats another reason why i used the Vintage Air panel. But it doesnt open the vent all the way because the handle hits the panel.
But i guess you could modify a steel panel to be able to use the vent lever.
