The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Interiors Radio Speaker Grill Installation

I removed the grill in order to access the speedometer. Since the speedo is working perfectly after 300 miles, I feel that its safe to replace the speaker grill.

The cardboard/paper material fell apart when I removed the grill. What material do you guys use to replace the original stuff? It probably doesn't matter since I don't have a radio but figured I'd ask.

Next problem: When removing the grill, one of the screw/studs on the bottom chrome strip spun in place. It looks like it is a captive bolt but I can't get the nut off so it's still hanging there.

What would you suggest to remove this screw/bolt/stud without damaging the chrome strip. When re-assembling, should I epoxy them in place or something?

I used some black construction paper I had laying around. That or some roofing paper (aka tar paper), although that might be a bit thick.

As far as that stud that's spinning, that's going to be tough. IIRC those strips are stainless/chrome wrapped around an inner steel strip, and you'll mess the bright part up trying to get it apart. You might be able to hold the stud on the protruding end with some padded pliers so as not to mess up the threads and get the nut spun loose. But the problem is it's behind the dash and a PITA to get at in the first place. I think your best approach is to break that strip loose (carefully so as not to damage the dash), then hit up the stovebolt collective for a replacement in the swap meet.
If you meant epoxy the strip in place, I don't think I'd do that, but if you can get the nut off and the stud is not damaged, you might be able to epoxy the bolt to the strip to keep it from spinning again. If you can salvage the strip undamaged, use something like windshield sealer (urethane hardening style) to reattach. Just a dot at the stud positions should do it, with some tape to hold the strip in place till the sealer hardens.

My condolences on your problem. Been there in similar situations.

I understand that the nut won’t come off, but will it go back on? If so, I’d put it back together and not worry about it.

No. It's stuck in place. The bolt/stud just spins inm place.

Maybe what Phil suggested is the way to go. Reinstall the grille, put that trim piece back in place without removing that nut and install the nut on the opposite end. Done.

Yes, I was talking about gluing the stud in place. Funny that the easiest part of the whole speedometer replacement operation (removing the grill) has become the hardest part of the operation.

Isn't that the way it goes? The more you remove the greater chance you get into a mess.

Is this so you can't see through it? I used some metal (door) screen once, made it look a little more retro IMO. Otherwise, nothing.

Think I have used a thin cardboard insert covered with black fabric.