Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Much appreciated Ross. I always enjoy your insight.

Joel......replacing those bezels is not something I choose not to do again while the dash is in the car. I suspect 56 bezels, and the 55 variety I have experience with are the same. When my instrument cluster was removed, I found that the bezels were held gingerly in place by 'tabs' that are actually apart of the bezels themselves. These tabs needed to be slightly compressed in order for the bezel to be removed. These tabs are not flexible and they break quite easily. To put the bezel back in, I had to use a small screwdriver to spread, flare or open the tab ever so slightly. When done correctly, the tabs hold the bezels in place over the mesh. Pressure fitted as you suggest. I wonder how they accomplished this in the factory?Further, All of this is joyfully experienced while on your back, brake pedal in your neck and working in a dark confined space.

If there is a next time for me, the whole dash will get removed.

Fortunately, my dash is out and I am completely redoing it. Thanks for the response.

I changed the bezels on my dash while it was out of the car. It was no fun and I symathize with Kev if he tried doing it while the dash was in the car. I was not sure if the tabs would hold so I put a few dabs of clear silicone on the back side. Hopefully, the next owner will have to deal with removing them.
One aside- I swapped out all of the gauges but did not have the speedometer rebuilt since it seemed to be working. It doesn't work now and I am not looking forward to hanging upside down to swap it out now that the interior is installed. Might be worthwhile,to,avoid,my foible.

Film on youtube on Padded dash

https://youtu.be/iQ_GtK7vpW8