White Lightnin'

For this thread, I want to hear advice about swapping an airbag dash to a non-airbag car (but not the airbag itself)... This is putting a '91 dash into an '88 model using the '88 gauges and electrics.

Since I have not started this part of the project yet -I could also use some time saving tips & tricks

Tom at 928 Int'l told me that there were some additional and/or different attachment points when comparing the 2 dashes. Without having the '88 out yet to visually contrast with the '91 dash, it can be reasoned that some of the additional attachments in the '91 dash had to do with supporting the whole airbag assembly & apparatus.

I believe I can still use the under-dash tray on the driver side if I don't use the knee protection pad... correct or no?

I believe the glove box arrangement will prevent the passenger's under-dash tray from being feasible... correct or no?

I also see the potentiometers for the wipers and interior lights are now positioned on the face of the pod vs. under the pod... are they otherwise the same (plug-n-play)?

Anything that will save any undue blood, sweat & tears would be greatly appreciated!

DR

Hi Barry,

You are a glutton for punishment.. but the later airbag dash/console will look good in your 928.

You are going to run into a lot of issues doing this. To do this right you are going to need (or fabricate) a bunch of metal brackets that are spot welded to the chassis of the 90-later. Also the steering column support is different so be prepared for that too. Give me a call when you can and I will give you some tips.

The way the dash is put together it is doubtful the drivers side storage tray will fit correctly without a lot of work. Besides IMHO it looks better without it anyway. The kneepad is different at first but you will probably get used to it quickly

The passenger side tray is a definite no-go.. especially if you want to use the glovebox :-)

White Lightnin'

Dave, it sounds as if I'd be better off trading in the '91 for a color-appropriate '87-88 dash!

History of the swap for those that don't know:

Original car color was Cassis Red Metallic... but was white when I bought it (and I like it)
Original interior color was Burgundy & Linen full contrast leather to sample... but was toasted, warped & nicotine stained when I bought it.

New car color is a custom Pearl White
New interior color to be Dark Grey & Light Grey (more appropriate for the body color) & found the '91 interior at a very good price 2 years ago...

So, spot-welded bracket to mimic the brakets on the '88 dash... check.
No-Go on the pass. dash tray... check, no big loss.
Go or No on the driver dash tray... check.
New steering wheel support fabrication... ummm... damn. Sounds like a job for a roll-cage fabricator!

Well Dave, thanks for the good(?) news and look forward to my call PM me with a best call time...

DR

Actually there are additional brackets above and beyond the 88 type. I assume they beefed up the dash mounting because of the airbags.

Anytime during normal business hours is good for me.

Mrmerlin

It would be a lot easier to swap in the correct dash for your year, .
If your a good fabricator then it can be done but I would still put the correct part in. you may be different, Good luck