I am replacing the dash pad in my 77 f250. The replacement pad is of the same vintage with no cracks. I will be painting it black (with spray on vinyl paint). Is there any suggesting as to what I could treat the pad with so it doesn't crack in the future?

 

303 protectant. Available from Summit Racing

 

With a painted surface, I don't see how any protectants can work ?

 

Be very carful about painting it black. Notice not many black dash's on cars. It absorbs heat, WILL CRACK due to UV/heat absorption. What was your stock color?
Tex

 

Tex94. The original colour was jade green. The truck had sat for a while and was home to mice and other critters, I gutted the cab and painted the interior black, looks good. The dash pad was chewed and cracked and well beyond hope of repair. I have a tan one coming and may very well use it as is if it goes well with the rest of the interior. The seat I have is black and I have one black door pad as well.(and 2 green ones) I haven't done the outside of the truck yet so the interior could change but I wanted black on black if I could swing it.
It is colder than a bankers heart here right now so I won't be doing anything drastic for a while.
Thanks for the response (swap you climates for a couple of weeks)

 

Roger the climate swap, spent a winter in Montana once. Have you looked into a Dashmat? Several manufacturers available on-line. I like mine as it protects the original dash and can be removed and hosed off when dirty.
Tex