The 1973–1987 Square Body dash is notorious for cracking, especially in sunbelt states. Here’s how to address it properly.
Why Square Body Dashes Crack
The original dash material is a vinyl-covered foam composite that dries out and cracks after decades of UV exposure. The foam underneath crumbles, and the vinyl surface becomes hard and brittle.
Cracks typically start near the center defroster vents and spread outward.
Fix Option 1: Dash Cover (Quick and Cheap)
A molded dash cover in ABS plastic or carpet snaps over the existing dash surface. These are available from Coverlay for most Square Body year ranges. They don’t fix the original dash but hide the damage completely.
Cost: $80–150, install: 20 minutes.
Fix Option 2: Dash Pad Replacement
A complete replacement dash pad from Goodmark or LMC Truck restores the original look with new foam and vinyl. Installation requires removing the dash face components and instrument cluster.
Cost: $200–400, install: 3–4 hours.
Fix Option 3: Professional Restoration
Vinyl wrap shops can recover the original dash in new vinyl. Results vary by shop quality. The foam condition determines if this approach holds long-term.
Interior Quick Wins:
While addressing the dash, consider:
- FH Group Seat Covers for the bench seat
- New door panel clips and weatherstripping
- Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer on any exposed cab floor metal before re-carpeting