dashboard swap???

[ronny_w]

how hard is it to remove a dashboard from a e30 and replace with new. my current one has split/cracked and thinking of changing it? can it be done at home or is it a garage job?

[suzie650]

Much easier than most cars. Basically a Pillar trim off, glovebox out, ECU's out the way, multiplugs disconnected and a couple nuts holding each side. (might have forgotten a couple things, but you get the general idea)
Use the search, it has been covered extensively in the past.

[tezk]

Theres an article in the tech section.. Took me about a day to remove donor dash, remove my cracked dash, wire in for obc, the install dash..

[cliffybabe]

yeha try this thread

http://home.comcast.net/~cdeegan9/dashb ... ard_1.html

[smithy318i]

Not as difficult as it looks, but you WILL need to protect the upper steering column shroud from being scratched.

[kevin316i]

How bad is the split? The problem with filling in cracks/splits is that they tend to open again as the crack propogates further. One way to stop the crack from getting longer is to cut a small circular hole at each end of the crack(very small, ~3mm diameter). Once done, you could get a trim repair kit and fill in the crack(and holes). It might not be perfect, but would be a lot less hassle than replacing the whole dash.

E30 dashes are prone to cracking/splitting so it is good practice to use a sun shield in your front window to protect it from strong sunshine and associated heat.