A flexible epoxy is the best solution. We recommend SEM Dual-Mix™ Multi-Plastic Repair Material(part# 39847). Trim/shave away any lifting edges. Fill the crack a little high with the epoxy and smooth with a card. Allow to cure for an hour.
Full Answer
Should I repair or replace my cracked dashboard?
When restoring older cars, it is often too expensive to replace a cracked dashboard. And, that is assuming a new dash board is available. In cases where new parts are too expensive, too difficult to find, or impossible to find, you will need to restore what is already there.
What is the best way to repair a broken dash?
Furthermore, most dashes are either rigid plastic or vinyl laminated to a thick foam pad. Neither can be sub-patched. A flexible epoxy is the best solution. We recommend SEM Dual-Mix™ Multi-Plastic Repair Material (part# 39847).
Why does my dashboard have a hole in it?
As you can see, this dashboard has a hole that needs to be repaired. Most old cars and some new cars have dashboards made from vinyl over urethane foam. Over time in the sun, the vinyl gets brittle and the dash board gets cracks. Many newer dashboard don't have any foam at all. Instead, they are made from injection molded TPO or ABS.
What causes a car dashboard to crack?
Most old cars and some new cars have dashboards made from vinyl over urethane foam. Over time in the sun, the vinyl gets brittle and the dash board gets cracks. Many newer dashboard don't have any foam at all.
What does cracked dashboard mean?
A cracked dashboard indicates a structural issue beyond mere leather or vinyl filler. Furthermore, most dashes are either rigid plastic or vinyl laminated to a thick foam pad. Neither can be sub-patched. A flexible epoxy is the best solution.
How to resources and FAQ?
How-to Resources & FAQ is library of articles and videos complied to help our customers complete their DIY leather and vinyl restoration projects.
Do you seal Rub n Restore paint?
Apply color. Rub ‘n Restore® colors dry with a low luster finish on their own, which is recommended for broad, glaring surfaces like a dashboard. Our colors do not need to be sealed. Learn how to match your color or shop our color line.
How to apply padded dash filler?
Mix some Padded Dash Filler with the cream hardener according to the instructions. Use a spreader to apply the Padded Dash Filler to the damaged area.
What is a dashboard made of?
Most old cars and some new cars have dashboards made from vinyl over urethane foam. Over time in the sun, the vinyl gets brittle and the dash board gets cracks. Many newer dashboard don't have any foam at all. Instead, they are made from injection molded TPO or ABS. But, these dashboards can also get cracked or get holes from exposure to the sun.
How to sand urethane?
Use 80 grit sandpaper to sand the urethane level with the surrounding area. The urethane is very stretchy and elastic so, if you use really short strokes when you sand, it may just stretch back and forth rather than getting ground away. A good way to prevent the back-and-forth stretching is to put your thumb on top of the sandpaper over the area that you need to sand. Then, pull the sandpaper while maintaining downward pressure with your thumb over the urethane.
Is it expensive to replace a cracked dashboard?
When restoring older cars, it is often too expensive to replace a cracked dashboard. And, that is assuming a new dash board is available. In cases where new parts are too expensive, too difficult to find, or impossible to find, you will need to restore what is already there. The padded dashboard on this 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is a good example.