71 dashboard replacement

[Budduncan]

I have made a new dashboard for my 71 spider but before I replace, I would appreciate any suggestions. It appears that I could probably replace it without removing the steering wheel, but it may be considerably easier with wheel removal. I do not want to stress the new dash, as it is pretty thin wood and I do not want to break it. Also any tricks or considerations / comments would be appreciated. What is the easiest way to remove the horn button. It does not want to come off easily and I do not want to break the plastic tabs. Thanks,
Bud

[124JOE]

skip the wheel and drop the colum

[Budduncan]

Thanks, Joe. That is a great idea. I see you are from Wisconsin. I am in Seattle, but my wife is from Prairie Du Chien, and I visit the Madison and PDC area fairly often.
Again, thanks.
B

[Budduncan]

Joe thank you. Your suggestion to drop the steering wheel rather than removing was MUCH easier and my new dashboard looks beautiful. I was able to load all of the existing instruments before connecting the wiring and with the color coded plugs, it was very easy. I did not know about the rubber spacers behind the dash, but a trip to the local hardware replaced them. Next up is putting a new matching panel on the center console. I made templates so if I ever have to replace again, or if someone wants to do on their own, it will be easy. I used a stain and covered with several coats of Seafin Oil, a marine finish that I have used on my Doug Fir front doors. It is a popular marine product here in Seattle, and gives a nice finish that you can renew every year, or as desired. So thanks again.
Bud

[124JOE]

no problem
i needed new gaskets for my tail lights,so i cut up a life preserver.it has closed cell foam 3/16 or so
then cut two of them up as gaskets
i also made a pattern

[kayjkay]

New project car coming to me next weekend is going to be a 71, you should upload some photos!

[georgeramos]

Yes pics please