Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Good luck Fred. Removing the seat is really a good first step. My back was cramped for several days after working on that dash - should have removed seat. And I have one more ring under my eyes than you do

I've been screwing up my courage to try removing my dash as well. I took a quick look and didn't spot any obvious screws or bolts to tackle; can someone give me a quick run-down on either pulling the dash or at least the instrument cluster on a '48?

Thanks much,

If it is like the 49-50, remove the windshield molding on the inside. This should reveal the screws that hold the dash in from the top. I believe there are two large bolts at the bottom of the dash that go into the kick panel area. I removed the radio first, but found I had to remove the floor piece that covers the transmission. That gave me room to drop the radio down.

If similar to 47, believe there are also several more bolts attaching various components such as hood release, cowl vent, steering column, etc etc that also have to come off. None are terrible but the dash is awkward and bulky so a second set of hands would be nice. Protect the steering column with some padding and as has been mentioned, removal of the seat is not really necessary but helpful.