The iconic 1965 Buick Riviera deserves a dashboard as stunning as its exterior. If you’ve been living with an unsightly cracked dash, it’s time for an upgrade. We’re ditching the dated fuzzy dash covers and opting for a sleek Dashtop dash cover. Here’s how we transformed our Riviera’s interior without breaking the bank.
Want to Dye the Dashtop? You’ll want these products:
SEM Plastic Prep: https://amzn.to/4fWWpgU
SEM Plastic Dye: https://amzn.to/3OLYtME
Why Choose Dashtop?
Dash covers have mixed reviews, but the Riviera’s relatively flat dashboard makes it an ideal candidate for this solution. The Dashtop effectively covers cracks and imperfections when properly installed.
Preparation is Key
- Flatten existing cracks using an aggressive flap wheel
- Address any other surface issues
- Work on the leading edge for proper alignment
- Scuff the entire surface with sandpaper
- Clean thoroughly with Windex or similar cleaner
Installation Process
- Apply the provided glue as per instructions
- Position the Dashtop carefully
- Use every quick clamp available to hold it in place while drying
- Inspect edges after drying
- Use a syringe to apply additional glue if needed
Color Options
We chose to keep our Dashtop black, but dyeing is an option. For best results, we recommend SEM Dye products:
- SEM Plastic Prep: https://amzn.to/4fWWpgU
- SEM Plastic Dye: https://amzn.to/3OLYtME
These products offer a wide range of colors to match your Riviera’s original interior.
The Result
With the new Dashtop installed, our 1965 Buick Riviera’s interior now matches its timeless exterior beauty. This affordable solution breathes new life into the car without compromising its classic appeal.
Have you tackled dashboard restoration on your classic car? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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