350i Dash panel like a banana!

[Yatesy350i]

As above guys removed all the wood items for a bit of TLC and found the main instrument panel is really bent. Any suggestions?

I doubt I would be able to make a new one to any reasonable standard?

Cheers Karl.

[Mr Tank]

Karl

Which part is bent, the wood or metal backing?

Andy

[Yatesy350i]

Andy it's the thick wooden panel that just presses into place to surround the speedo etc.

Karl.

[assynt road]

Yatesy350i said:

Andy it's the thick wooden panel that just presses into place to surround the speedo etc.

Karl.

But they're all like that sir!

(well at least mine is...)

[utternutter]

Mine was slightly bent and when i pulled off to quickly it flew off so i took the panel indoors and placed in front of my radiator with 2 heavy books on each end and a sock in the middle (just folded over a couple of times) to pull the bend out the other way, left it here for a week and it worked, now back in place with self adhesive velcro :-)

[johntom]

Just removed all 3 pieces from the dash of my 350i earlier and my instrument panel is also slightly curved. It's appears to have cracked in the center under one of the clocks where the wall thickness is next to nothing!

Note the oddglove box.

I think if its fastened back on securely it will be pulled straight again though. Now to start stripping off the old finish and veneer!

Do all the glove boxes have cabinet locks and key holes, can't remember from previous wedges?

Edited by johntom on Thursday 21st March 19:18

Edited by johntom on Thursday 21st March 19:19

[jon haines]

Mine was exactly the same but it was really bad. so i used the original as a template and made a whole new piece out of a piece of pine the same thickness then veneered it and 4 years later its as good as when i first did it.

[Lemonentry]

Hi guys, I have an original metal dash back that can be used as a template ( like i have) if your making a new veneer. Don't want anything for it, just the cost of postage, and then it can do the rounds, it's better using this that guessing or taking your dash apart.

Just an idea for the pot

[Yatesy350i]

Great idea Kev.

I'll email you.

Cheers Karl.

[johntom]

Hi
Yes I'd be interested in using it too after Karl