1989 dash pad help

[JOES89K5]

Hello everyone I'm in process of replacing my dash pad with a OEM aftermarket replacement. I pulled the old dash. Now it appears the dash pad slides into the holes toward the windshield then clips further in on to the metal dash. Now I recently ordered and received this aftermarket pad. When I attempted to install it the pad slides in but comes up short. The clips fall into place ( holes ) but fall short of clipping on the metal edge. The clip has a bent front edge that just rides up to the metal but won't clip and grab metal. I have been in touch with company I purchased it and attempted to resolve issue but the bottom line is it just won't clip in place. My old one still clips in. I have this pad in and out a dozen or more times and it won't clip in. The company service had asked if I installed it in correctly making sure pad goes in straight and on a angle so clips enter the holes then clip on metal. Has anyone purchased a dash pad having same problem and if not one from a company with better fit and finish. Bottom line I should have been told to send it back and refunded my money. Or at least a replacement. Sorry for being redundant and long drawn out but I'm on edge.

 

[JOES89K5]

I corrected the problem I guess I'm working too many long hours.

 

[702GS]

I corrected the problem I guess I'm working too many long hours.

How?

 

[JOES89K5]

How?

I had the clips placed incorrectly. I just thought I had them in the right holes but didn't not letting clips set further towards end of dash pad. I was rushing around trying to get it done not paying attention. Im told I have short term memory loss due to a prior stroke which in turn causes my frustration. I just thought and knew I had it in right and it was a bad pad. I finally called manufacture of dash and spoke to a guy who told me I was not putting in clips correctly and sent me a picture. Yes I felt Dam stupid. After that pad worked out and looks great.

 

[702GS]

Thanks for the follow up, very useful for people looking to install these and running into the same issues.

What pad did you use? Where did you buy it? Can we see pictures?

 

[prolinews]

X2!

 

[702GS]

I got the Summit Pad, will install and provide feedback asap!

 

[JOES89K5]

I purchased pad from USA 1 industries. They color match it. It appears there are only few companies who produce product. Other sellers get them and color to preference. I stayed with medium gray. When u get pad some of outer edging need to be trimmed to fit. I got the vinyl over foam pad to get the authentic look. Your original pad is made out of a Metal stamping then foam and vinyl covering. The new pad is produced in a mold mostly of foam and then appears they add structure by adding some stamped metal to the pad in the middle and where clips insert. The pad is then vinyl covered. It looks nice. I will try and get some pictures up.