The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop 54 dash in a 53

Will a 54 3100 dash fit into a 53 3100 without a lot of modifications? I have a really good 54 dash and my 53 dash is all rotted. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

What would you consider being "a lot of modification"?

How much metalwork experience do you have?

The shape/size of the two dashes are different, not just with respect to the two windshield openings.

There are at least 25 spot-welds in each dash/cab that will have to be cut out.

The donor dash would have to be fitted and then welded into place.

Maybe someone who has accomplished/attempted this will respond. That would be the best information for you to consider.

Personally I think this one is a bad idea. There are actually 39/41 spot welds to consider, a wiper motor bracket change and potentially the steering support/cowl actuator. Lots of work and the area with the majority of spots along the windshield pinch as Tim mentions is not even close to a match. I have cut several of these out for sale to make repairs but never wanted to attempt replacing one. If you decide to do it take some pictures as I am sure it would be of interest. Here is the breakdown on the spots: 25 spots along windshield, 2-4 on center divider (another issue) and 5 each side of the dash (not many of these can be removed with a spot cutter).
https://www.flickr.com/photos/advance-design_parts_co/12512838825/in/set-72157631868452754

Thanks guys. My big question was about the windshield area. What would be the best idea for fixing mine. Replace whole thing or cut a replacement one where the bad areas are? Thanks again...