Author Topic: Dash Crack!! (Read 8284 times)

fixierider84 · « **on:** December 09, 2010, 09:05:23 PM »

I have an oncoming problem...so my crack-free dash is starting to crack! The split is maybe three quarters of an inch long, maybe 2mm wide, and to the left of the map indentation. I cover the windshield with a sun cover always, and store the car for the most part indoors, and always try to be careful not to subject the dash to extreme temp changes fast (like trying to ease into the heat or air slowly in the extremes). Is there anything any of you guys have done to stop the cracks from growing? Has anyone tried to fill them in? Any input would be appreciated!

Evan

monty23psk · « **Reply #1 on:** December 09, 2010, 10:19:28 PM »

From research, you drill to very small holes at the ends of the cracks to relieve stress. You can then fill and paint but not sure of which kits are good.

fixierider84 · « **Reply #2 on:** December 10, 2010, 08:06:17 AM »

Interesting! I never would have thought of that, but really it does make total sense. I have a few tiny bits around. I am going to try that. Thanks!

Evan

DesktopDave · « **Reply #3 on:** December 11, 2010, 12:08:54 PM »

Let me know if you dig up anything. I've tried a few vinyl repair kits, but the only real solutions are either a dash cover (they're not that bad) or a total vinyl replacement (very expensive). There are a few companies that will re-cover them.

Selfish · « **Reply #4 on:** December 23, 2010, 04:13:58 PM »

Let us know if you had any success with that "technique". I found two writeups sometime ago about filling in the cracks (E30 specific) and repairing your dash to the point of not being able to tell it was all messed up before. I remember it also had some tips to prevent cracks from happening or expanding. I can't post a link right now because I'm at work. I'll post it when I'm home.

fixierider84 · « **Reply #5 on:** December 24, 2010, 05:03:42 PM »

I will try it this week with my time off between the holidays, and keep you all informed. Happy Christmas!

Selfish · « **Reply #6 on:** December 25, 2010, 12:53:04 PM »

here it goes

http://www.e30tech.com/forum/showthread.php?t=95330

Selfish · « **Reply #7 on:** December 25, 2010, 01:16:34 PM »

here�s another one. I think this one is somewhat better

http://www.e30tech.com/forum/showthread.php?t=94638

carlos318is · « **Reply #8 on:** December 26, 2010, 03:04:17 AM »

How are you getting on with this

fixierider84 · « **Reply #9 on:** January 04, 2011, 09:43:50 PM »

Sorry for the delayed response, Carlos. After checking out the links, I am going to hold off from doing anything. My crack is smaller than the width of my pinkie, so to pull the dash, resin and fill it and then sand and repaint, isn't a priority at this time. Its good to know there is a way to repair certain damage though!

Evan

DesktopDave · « **Reply #10 on:** January 04, 2011, 10:06:45 PM »

Not to gloat, but I just found another crack free e30 dash. Now I have two in my cars and one spare!

My previous spare was cracked, so I'm covered in case of emergency. I'd advise anyone that wants to keep their e30 should find a spare. Be sure to store it somewhere away from the sun and 140degF interior temps.

fixierider84 · « **Reply #11 on:** January 05, 2011, 08:13:02 PM »

Nice, Dave..I guess those are getting to be pretty rare now-a-days. Its a shame they crack so easily...

B318M42W · « **Reply #12 on:** January 09, 2011, 05:42:14 AM »

From what i understand of cracking dashes is that they tend to dry out first and then they loose their elastisity and then crack. Maybe someone else in the hotter climates can verify my theory? I swipe the entire dash with the same stuff i use to clean/refresh my seats (gold leather restore or something like that). rear seats went from dry and somewhat prone to cracking to nice and flexible. no new cracks in the dash since i got it 3 years ago. thoughts?

Selfish · « **Reply #13 on:** February 02, 2011, 09:16:04 PM »

I believe the process you described is exactly how it happens. I also think wiping them with a quality product that keeps them from drying out is key in avoiding cracks. I cant tell from my own experience since my dash was already cracked when I got the car. It wasn't too bad then but it got worse over time. I pulled mine, now that the weather appears to be warming up a bit I'll work on it.

Ipaman · « **Reply #14 on:** February 07, 2011, 08:49:37 PM »

I'm on the look out for a dash myself. Mine has 3 cracks and while it doesn't really bother me, I want to make this car as nice as possible.