Product Guide for Black Vinyl Dash Crash Pad Covering for Land Rover Defender - By Boulder Ridge

Key Takeaways

• Careful removal of dash components ensures a smooth start to the project

• Precise measuring and cutting of materials is essential for a professional finish

• Proper application of adhesive and trimming techniques create a seamless look

Materials & Equipment Overview

You'll need several key items to complete this dash trim refurbishment project. The main material required is faux leather, matching what's currently on your seats. This is a more cost-effective option compared to genuine leather.

For the removal process, you'll need:

• Phillips head screwdriver

• Mini ratchet (highly recommended for tight spaces)

• Flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool

The dash trim is held in place by:

• 2 vent covers (Phillips head screws)

• 3 main chunky screws

• 1 countersunk screw behind the logo cap

For the re-trimming process, gather these supplies:

• Faux leather material (pre-cut or a full roll)

• Contact adhesive spray

• Sharp craft knife or scissors

• Clean work surface

If your dash has cracks or gouges, you might also need:

• Expanding foam or filler

• Sandpaper

Remember to work in a well-ventilated area when using adhesive spray. Wear gloves to protect your hands during the trimming and gluing process.

Initial Preparations

To begin trimming your Land Rover dash, gather the necessary tools and materials. You'll need a mini ratchet, Phillips head screwdriver, and a set of screws. Remove the vent covers by unscrewing the Phillips head screws. Next, locate the three main screws on the dash and remove them using your mini ratchet.

Take off the handle at the other end of the dash by popping off the logo cap and removing the major screw behind it. There's also a small countersunk screw to remove. The handle has two prongs that fit into the lower dash; simply pull it out once the screws are removed.

Loosen the screws on the side of the dash panel. It should now come out easily, though it remains attached at the bottom via a small groove. Lift up the dash top to reveal the extrusion piece that fits into the end caps.

Prepare your trimming material. If you've purchased a kit, it will be pre-cut to size with some extra allowance. For a DIY approach, measure and cut your material about 15mm larger than the dash piece on all sides. Fold the material in half to mark its centre, which will help with alignment later.

Removing Dash Components

To begin removing the dash components, start with the vent covers. These are secured by two Phillips head screws. Next, locate the three main screws - they're quite large and chunky. A mini ratchet is the ideal tool for this job, as it allows you to work around the windscreen more easily than a standard screwdriver.

Remove the trim piece by unscrewing these components. The screws have a coarse thread, so they should come out quickly. To remove the handle at the other end of the dash, pop off the logo cap. You'll find a major screw behind it, along with a smaller countersunk one nearby.

Two prongs connect the handle to the lower dash. Simply pull it out once the screws are removed. Loosen the screws on the side and at the bottom of the dash. The dashtop can then be lifted up, revealing the extrusion piece that fits into the end caps.

At this point, you can pull out the panel. If you've purchased a kit, you'll receive a piece of material cut to size with some extra allowance for trimming. When working with the material, aim to trim about 15mm away from the bottom edge.

Remember to handle the extrusions at the ends of the dash trim carefully. These lock into the end covers, so you don't want excess material here. Trim the material to stop about 5mm from the edge for the best fit.

Preparing the Dash Trim

To begin, remove the vent covers by unscrewing the Phillips head screws. Next, take out the three large screws securing the dash trim. A mini ratchet is ideal for this task, as it allows easy access despite the windscreen obstruction.

Pop off the logo cap at the other end of the dash to reveal a major screw. Remove this, along with a smaller countersunk screw nearby. The handle can then be pulled out, as it's held in place by two prongs.

Loosen the screws on the side of the dash, allowing you to lift the top portion. The extrusion piece that connects to the end caps will be visible. You can now pull out the panel for trimming.

Cut your fabric about 15 mm away from the bottom edge. For the extrusions at the ends, trim the material to stop about 5 mm from the edge, rather than folding it around.

Fold your fabric in half to mark the centre, then align this with the centre hole of the dash trim. Position the trim so you have 10-12 mm of material to fold over the edge.

Apply contact adhesive spray to both the trim and fabric surfaces. Let it cure for at least a minute until tacky. Start by gluing the front edge first, then work on pulling and shaping the material around the trim.

For any cracks or gouges in your dash, create a V-shaped gully and fill with expanding foam or filler. Once hardened, trim it flush before applying the new material.

Make relief cuts about 1 cm from the corners to help the fabric fit snugly into recesses. Fold the edges over, creating neat points where necessary. Trim any excess material for a clean finish.

Applying Adhesive

To begin applying the adhesive, ensure your work surface is clean and the dash trim is positioned correctly. Fold your material in half and mark the centre without creasing it. Place the dash trim in the centre of the material, aligning it with the mark.

Spray contact adhesive on both the dash trim and the material. Let it cure for at least a minute to become tacky. Apply the adhesive to the front edge of the dash trim first, then carefully roll the material onto it, pressing firmly.

Next, apply adhesive to the top face of the dash trim and the corresponding area of the material. Stretch the material slightly as you pull it over the trim, ensuring a tight fit. Work the material with your fingers, pinching it into place.

For the underside, spray adhesive and fold the material over, keeping tension as you smooth it down. Be careful not to spray the newly covered areas. Apply adhesive to the inside face where you'll roll the material over.

If your dash has cracks or gouges, create a V-shaped gully with a blade and fill it with expanding foam or filler before covering. This will ensure a smooth finish.

When rolling the material over the edges, make relief cuts about 1 cm from the corners. This allows the material to fold neatly without bunching. Trim any excess material carefully with a sharp blade.

Remember to work slowly and precisely, as readjusting too many times can cause glue lumps to show through the fabric.

Trimming Techniques

Begin by removing the vent covers and main screws from the dashboard. A mini ratchet is ideal for accessing tight angles. Pop off the logo cap at the handle's end to reveal a major screw, and remove the small countersunk screw nearby.

Pull out the dash top, which is attached at the bottom with a groove. When trimming, leave about 15mm of material at the bottom edge. The extrusions at the ends should have minimal material, stopping roughly 5mm from the edge.

Fold your material in half to mark the centre. Place the dash trim in the centre, aligning it with any existing holes. Pull the material back enough to cover the edge by 10-12mm.

Use a bonding adhesive spray for materials, applying it to both surfaces. Let it cure for at least a minute until tacky. Start by gluing the entire front edge first, then work on pulling and shaping the material.

When gluing the top face, pull the material slightly to stretch it into place. Apply glue to the underside where you'll fold it back. Keep pressure on it as you pull it down and pinch it into place.

For any cracks or gouges in your dash, create a V-shaped gully and fill with expanding foam or filler. Once hard, trim it with a blade before covering with material.

Make relief cuts about 1cm from the corners to help with folding. Create two points for folding at the edges, trimming excess material as needed. Tuck the material into recesses first, then fold over the edges.

Edging and Final Touches

To complete the dash trim installation, you'll need to focus on edging and final touches. Start by creating relief cuts about 1 cm away from each corner. This allows for easier folding and a neater finish.

Carefully run your fingers along the recess, pressing the material into place. Fold the edge over, creating two points at each corner. Pull the material down firmly, ensuring it's taut.

You may notice some excess material hanging out. Don't worry - this can be tidied up later. Trim away any unnecessary bits, being cautious not to cut yourself. The goal is to create a smooth, puckered corner.

For a professional look, pay extra attention to the visible areas. Take your time to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles in the material. A steady hand and patience are key to achieving a flawless finish.

Remember to clean up any stray adhesive or loose threads. These small details can make a big difference in the final appearance of your dash trim.