Underdash speakers for a 77

[frantark10]

Need to replace these factory originals but see no way to get to them from the bottom or top of dash (no removable grills) What has to be removed in order to gain speaker access?

[Dennis Trayes]

the right hand pad that holds the map pockets and the speedometer cluster. while you have it out replace your bulbs with good quality ones.

[92RAGTOP]

I read an article recently about speaker repair. The writer stated that most old paper cone speaker loose there rigidity then the volume and overall quality quickly degrad. He said that if the paper is not torn or physically damaged you may be able to repair it without removing it from the car. He suggested mixing 1 part Elmers glue to 10 parts water. Brush this mixture directly to the speaker, let it dry completely. This will return the rigidity to the paper and hopefully solve your problem.
If you have decided to replace the speakers anyhow might as well give this a try, you got nothing to loose.

[Bob Weiss]

I believe the top dash pad must be removed to access the speakers. I have a 71 and the only way to get to them is either through the removal of the trim on each side-map pocket and dash cluster or removing the top dash pad. I would get an assembly manual and that should show you how!!

Bob Weiss

[frantark10]

For those that got back to me I really appreciate it. I figure pulling that top dash pad should be an interesting project. Hopefully I won't crack the darn thing while flexing it to get it out.

[Rick and Arleen Ball]

I agree with Bob.
Get an assembly manual to help you out.
As for repairing the speaker, just replace it with an upgraded model available through most catalogs.
Be patient, and you should do fine.
Good Luck.

[Bob Weiss]

It is a PITA job and I personally would either have the speakers professionally restored (If you are worried about correctness-NCRS-style) or repace them with better quality.

Bob Weiss

[frantark10]

Again, thanks for the help. I do have an assembly manual and had a chance to look it over a bit more carefully. Not too worried about NCRS for this vette however. The speakers will be replaced with better quality as will the radio. Next thing I've got to figure out is what's involved with replacement of the antenna assembly and cable. By the way, because of you guys and your assistance I wrote out my check for club membership today.

[Joel Fellman]

welcome to CCDV!! I think you're gonna like it here!

[Bob Weiss]

Also, Welcome to CCDV. This is a great club and there is something here for everyone. Restore, race, show or just drive and enjoy 'em. But more importantly-great people.

Bob Weiss

[jonmentzer]

i replaced the speakers in my 76, the dash pad has to come out. it is a pita job .if you are not careful you will crack the dash pad,i cracked mine.

[Joel Fellman]

there is someone local that does invisible dash repairs. he spoke at one of our general meetings quite a while ago. I understand he matches the color, grain, etc. perfectly. If someone can remember who he was, please post it here as I have a small crack in my dash also & would like to get it repaired! Thanks!

[Bob Weiss]

I think you can buy replacement dash pads from Corvette America, Ecklers or Mid America. As chances are if you cracked it on the way out-you'll crack it on the way in if it is old and the plastic is brittle.

Bob Weiss

[frantark10]

I expect there is no way to get to the speakers by just dropping the instrument cluster and the map pocket lower dash sections. If that's the case I believe I'll spend a Sunday morning or two in church before I attempt this job. It couldn't hurt! Really don't wan't to spring for a new pad at the moment........but if I do get it out in one piece....I may just do the repaint of it while I'm at it since it's fairly sun faded. If I discover any "tricks" I'll let you all know.

[Bob Weiss]

Patience is the trick !!

(Don Lemek if you have anything to add please chime in)

Bob Weiss

[jonmentzer]

mid-america and others sell reproduction dash pads they sell for around 350.00 dollars.they also sell dash pad skins for around 110.00.