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I’m getting ready to install a bead on my ‘70 dash that I’ve had for many years. A couple of years ago I unrolled it and zip tied to a straight rod in the efforts to straighten it out as I do not want a wavy dash accent. It came with nine of the plastic barbs that puncture into the dash, which seems insufficient to me. I was wondering if anyone has a better method of application and if you might share any good ideas to create a long term professional result. I had even considered sliding a stainless tig welding rod inside the bead to hold a straight line.
I recently installed the bead with just the barbs and it’s straight as an arrow. I used more than 9. Maybe 12-15. Can’t remember exactly. I also Pre drilled the holes for the barbs with an 1/8” bit to make it easier to get them started in. I did like the other user above said and used a bit of heat to get that bend on the sides nice. I think the early build 70 dash beads were glued on. I think there was a dealer bulletin that came out early in the 70 build year about adding the barbs. Must have had issues with the glue coming undone on some cars.
A correction, I did a recount when I arrived home from work and discovered that I actually have 17 to 18 barbed mounts. Perhaps it will be enough to keep it in line. I’m glad that I started to flatten it out when I did.😄
I recently installed the bead with just the barbs and it’s straight as an arrow. I used more than 9. Maybe 12-15. Can’t remember exactly. I also Pre drilled the holes for the barbs with an 1/8” bit to make it easier to get them started in. I did like the other user above said and used a bit of heat to get that bend on the sides nice. I think the early build 70 dash beads were glued on. I think there was a dealer bulletin that came out early in the 70 build year about adding the barbs. Must have had issues with the glue coming undone on some cars.
Originally Posted by Funkwagon455
A correction, I did a recount when I arrived home from work and discovered that I actually have 17 to 18 barbed mounts. Perhaps it will be enough to keep it in line. I’m glad that I started to flatten it out when I did.😄
Here is a pic of mine done with the pins. As mentioned above if there is any sharp creases use a heat gun before you install to try and get them to lay out. SLIGHT heat! I probably had as many pins as you show on your bench. Hardest part was punching holes in a mint dash pad! Almost as bad as installing friction fit outer trim on a new paint job.
June 3rd, 2022, 11:05 AM
