Gauge Cluster Hood Removal DIY Guide
DISCLAIMER
As always, follow all safety protocols. Don't undertake this task if you aren't comfortable with it, fully understand it, and are capable of completing it. The information provided may be incomplete or inaccurate. You are ultimately responsible for anything you do. Neither Redpants, LLC or myself is responsible or liable for anything that may occur.
A common problem with early Gaydon-era cars is that the leather on the dashboard panels will contract and pull back from the edges of the panel. The problem is that the glue holding the leather onto the panels was too weak, so it would soften up in the sun and allow the leather to pull. I’ve also been told it could be due to the frames of some of the panels themselves. Either way, if the problem is addressed early enough, the panels can be repaired without needing to be replaced. This DIY Guide shows the removal of one of the most commonly-affected panels - the gauge cluster hood.
Needed
Philips-head screwdriver
About 5 minutes
Step 1
Pull up on the gauge cluster hood to pop loose the six tabs holding it in place but keep it near the gauge cluster.
DO NOT pull the gauge cluster hood away from the gauge cluster - it’s still attached by a strap.
Step 2
Use the Philips-head screwdriver to remove the screw holding the leather strap of the gauge cluster hood to the gauge cluster. With the screw removed, you can now remove the gauge cluster hood.
Step 3
Install the new or repaired gauge cluster hood in reverse order.
And that’s it!