Dash pad missing metal post - solution?

[Vae Victus]

My passenger side dash pad is missing the center post that is a push to fit into the dash. It pulled out when I removed the pad initially during the teardown. It's kind of an important one since it's right in the middle of the long section and I'm concerned that it will be loose.

I could probably stick a piece of double sided self adhesive foam or Velcro in there but is anyone aware of replacement posts like this being sold? I was thinking to try to epoxy something if I can get it to stick to the rubber (which is doubtful).

 

[SteveH]

That's a tough one. I would (reluctantly) use 3M trim tape (the expensive stuff used to hold emblems on vehicles) and use a moderate amount - not a 12" section, but maybe a 6" strip of the 1/2" wide tape in that area. It will be totally hidden and with care, you can remove the pad in the future.

You can't really re-weld a stud onto that metal piece, because it's embedded in the dash rubber. I don't think any JB-weld-type product will hold, long term. I think with proper cleaning, the tape will stick acceptable to the dash pad and do the job.

 

[Jdc1]

Rivnut into the sheet metal backer might be worth a try and then thread some appropriate rod to mimic the og stud.

 

[mattressking]

Drill a hole slightly smaller than post, copy post diameter and match length, lather new post in windshield adhesive and press-in. Then let it set. Shouldn't go anywhere, ever.

Otherwise the grey double-sided adhesive, that stuff works great.

 

[Mark Jennings]

Drill a hole slightly smaller than post, copy post diameter and match length, lather new post in windshield adhesive and press-in. Then let it set. Shouldn't go anywhere, ever.

Otherwise the grey double-sided adhesive, that stuff works great.

Windshield Adhesive…..great idea.

 

[Bear]

Similarly, why not cut a small scrap of sheet metal, drill and chamfer for a flathead machine bolt same diameter as the missing stud, and pop-rivet it to the existing metal plate in the dash. Can then add a split lock and nut from the backside of the dash, not too tight.

 

[Vae Victus]

The metal AND the stud are gone. The whole thing pulled out from the rubber.

I agree that the 3M trim tape may be the most feasible.

@mattressking and @Bear inthink given how hard the studs hold in the metal clips that it would be a one time use: when you remove it, it will come off again.

This may be ok though because when does one ever need to take the pads off unless it is because of once-every-45 year rebuild.

 

[45Dougal]

I think that's what we call a "bonding fastener" unless I'm mistaken.
Its basically a threaded fastener with an oversize head for bonding to composites and mouldings.

You could try your local fibreglass suppliers, or a friendly boat builder if you can't find them on ebay