Sagging Dash.

[dtjk592]

The dash in my spider has developed a noticeable sag with gaps forming on the top right corner of the instrument cluster insert and the top left corner of the glove box door. It has no cracks fortunately so I would like to see if there is a way to get it back into shape, could it be as simple as just tightening the mounting screws for the dash? If so where are they located?

[donerehart]

I have the same issues, but haven't figured out how to deal with it. I'm curious to see what others say.

[manoa matt]

Unlike the radio and center console, the dash is not reinforced with a metal core. Its substrate is a fibrous material somewhat like cardboard and more susceptible to heat and moisture, hence the sagging.

Be glad its not cracked up as that is the start of the demise of the dash. You could get a plastic dash cover for about $100, but IMHO they look worse and wavy. The best and cheapest option is to get the dash carpet piece for around $40. The carpet will hide the sagging, and keep the sun off the dash which will make it last much longer.

[dtjk592]

Interesting, I guess I will count my blessings perhaps i can somehow support it in the center to try to lift the middle section up. The top of the dash is fine it just kind of droops at the middle causing the panel gaps. I will investigate further this weekend.

[azygoustoyou]

I thought about the same issues as my dash was just starting to crack. Still it was starting to flake.
I wanted to do a custom dash for the gauges then thought after putting money into that. I still would need a new dash itself.
So I bit the bullet and took care of both issues at once. I bought a fiberglass dash from SoCal Mark.
He also has fiberglass center consoles which are next on my list.

[htchevyii]

I wish I knew about Mark's console before I bought my crap, I mean cap. My full dash cap looks good, but took lots of work to get it that way, (whole dash out, lots of clamps and lots of manipulating the wood panels for the correct fit). The back of the dash looks like paper mache or something. I thought about trying to use some fiberglass resin to add some strength, but didn't.

[fiat218]

wow. nice dash. what that cost you and what year of fiat u have that in?