1968 VIN tag on dash - Does the dash pad slip under or is it cut out?

[admin]

For the VIN tag on the passenger's side dash, does the dash pad just slip under the VIN tag or was there a cut out on original dash pads where the VIN tag sits?

I'm installing a new dash pad and my original was in such bad shape that it doesn't help me with this question.

 

[stangfan]

I just checked mine and the tag sits over the pad. Pretty sure it's original.

 

[CougarCJ]

Yes, tag has to be visible. The OEM dash pads for 1968 probably had a notch for the tag.

 

[admin]

I did a test fit of my dash pad (I won't do final install until the windshield glass is in) and I had to notch the dash pad to get the VIN tag to sit correctly. The metal VIN tag does slip over the dash pad, but the pad couldn't push all the way forward without notching it.

Left photo is showing the size of the notch I made (without the dash pad pushed in tight). Right photo shows the dash in tight. The notched portion of the dash pad in front of the VIN tag will get covered by the black metal trim that goes along the base of the windshield.

 

[admin]

Speaking of the dash pad trim pieces, according to the "Body Assembly Manual" (purple cover) there's a small connector piece in the middle, where the two long trim pieces overlap. I don't remember ever seeing this piece. Does anyone have one of these on their cars?

See the piece circled in red below labeled "C", which according to the legend in the diagram is "C7ZB-65045C72 SUPPORT - INSTR. PANEL AND RETAINER TOP MOLDING - 1 REQ'D"

 

[Ruppstang]

I have had them on some of our cars. I may have an extra.