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Thread: Leather dash and tunnel

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    Question Leather dash and tunnel

    OO, I got my full hide from Discount Hides on ebay (thanks guys) and am ready to proceed. Question: what is the best way to glue it and should it be padded (and how)? I ordered a quart of Burge contact cement for leather. Anyone use that? BTW the full hide looks like very good quality. I recommend those folks (but then, what do I know about leather).
    I appreciate any help I can get.
    Jeff

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    Smile Full hide photos

    Quote Originally Posted by Jeff's First FFR View Post
    OO, I got my full hide from Discount Hides on ebay (thanks guys) and am ready to proceed. Question: what is the best way to glue it and should it be padded (and how)? I ordered a quart of Burge contact cement for leather. Anyone use that? BTW the full hide looks like very good quality. I recommend those folks (but then, what do I know about leather).
    I appreciate any help I can get.
    Jeff
    Here are photos of hide. What a big cow!!
    thumb_IMG_8073_1024.jpgthumb_IMG_8074_1024.jpg

    99 bucks. What a steal!

  3. #3
    David aka Ducky2009 Ducky2009's Avatar
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    Closed Cell 2A Volara Foam Landau Padding, 1/8" thick works great.

    Jdav covered the tunnel top and back cockpit wall. He might be able to tell you about things to look out for. https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/show...l=1#post293059
    MK4 Build #9035 Delivered 2/17/17, First Start & Go-Kart 6/2/17, Licensed 9/1/17
    Paint - Lightning Blue Metallic, No Hood Scoop, No Stripes
    Gen 2 Coyote Engine & TKO-600. Solid Axle, 8.8-3.55, Power Steering, Power Brakes, Dual Roll Bars
    Heater and Glove Box, Drop Trunk, Wipers, Radio, FFR Vintage Gauges, Custom Dash
    Build Thread: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showt...MK4-Build-9035

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    Smile Leather on back wall

    Quote Originally Posted by Ducky2009 View Post
    Closed Cell 2A Volara Foam Landau Padding, 1/8" thick works great.

    Jdav covered the tunnel top and back cockpit wall. He might be able to tell you about things to look out for. https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/show...l=1#post293059
    Oh...a use for the rest of the cow. I'll have to check that out. And thanks for the link.
    Jeff

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    Senior Member edwardb's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Ducky2009 View Post
    Closed Cell 2A Volara Foam Landau Padding, 1/8" thick works great.
    X2. Exactly what I used myself for padding, and DAP Landau Top & Trim High Heat Resistant (HHR) Contact Cement. Both the same as what my local interior shop uses.
    Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build Thread
    Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread and Video
    Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. LS3 and 4L65E auto. Rcvd 01/05/2021. Legal 04/20/2023. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023.

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    If I might jump in and piggyback off this thread for a moment with a question of my own... any guidance on how to size the gauge and switch holes to account for wrapping the leather into the holes? Do you measure the hide thickness with a caliper and add that (x2) to the diameter of the hole?
    MkIV Roadster build: Gen 2 Coyote, IRS, TKO600. Ordered 10/24/18. Delivered 1/29/19. Engine installed 8/8/21. First start 9/12/21. First go-kart 9/17/21. Off to paint 4/11/22. Back from paint 12/30/22. Build thread here.

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    Senior Member edwardb's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by JohnK View Post
    If I might jump in and piggyback off this thread for a moment with a question of my own... any guidance on how to size the gauge and switch holes to account for wrapping the leather into the holes? Do you measure the hide thickness with a caliper and add that (x2) to the diameter of the hole?
    That's exactly how I do it. Keep them on the small side of the calculated dimension so a slight friction fit. Works very well.
    Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build Thread
    Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread and Video
    Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. LS3 and 4L65E auto. Rcvd 01/05/2021. Legal 04/20/2023. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023.

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    Thank you very much!
    MkIV Roadster build: Gen 2 Coyote, IRS, TKO600. Ordered 10/24/18. Delivered 1/29/19. Engine installed 8/8/21. First start 9/12/21. First go-kart 9/17/21. Off to paint 4/11/22. Back from paint 12/30/22. Build thread here.

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    Straversi's Avatar
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    John,
    I made a test panel to cut gauge and switch holes to make sure I had the right snug fit. It also gave me a change to glue on the padding and some scrap leather and learn how much the leather stretches, how fast the glue sets up, how to best make the pie cuts, etc. The practice pieces made the main event much less stressful. Time well spent.



    -Steve
    Mk IV #8901 - Complete kit, Coyote, TKO-600, IRS. Ordered 5/23/16, Delivered 7/14/16, First Start 8/13/17, First Go-Kart 10/22/17, Registered and Completed 10/18/18. Build Thread: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showt...V-Coyote-Build Graduation Thread: https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/show...-Roadster-8901

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    JohnK's Avatar
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    Thanks Steve. Great suggestion.

    -John
    MkIV Roadster build: Gen 2 Coyote, IRS, TKO600. Ordered 10/24/18. Delivered 1/29/19. Engine installed 8/8/21. First start 9/12/21. First go-kart 9/17/21. Off to paint 4/11/22. Back from paint 12/30/22. Build thread here.

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    Senior Member phileas_fogg's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by JohnK View Post
    If I might jump in and piggyback off this thread for a moment with a question of my own... any guidance on how to size the gauge and switch holes to account for wrapping the leather into the holes? Do you measure the hide thickness with a caliper and add that (x2) to the diameter of the hole?
    Note that the F5-provided high beam indicator light (blue) & turn signal lights (green) are slightly different in diameter...at least on my car they were. If you use them, measure each and size your hole accordingly.


    John
    MK IV Roadster #8631
    Ford 302, Holley Terminator EFI, T5z, 3.55 Rear End, IRS, 17” Halibrand Replicas (9” front, 10.5” rear), Nitto 555 G2’s (275/40ZR17 front, 315/35ZR17 rear), Fast Freddie’s Power Steering, F5 Wilwood Brakes, FFMetal’s Firewall Forward, Forte’s Hydraulic Clutch & Throttle Linkage
    https://www.ffcars.com/threads/phile.../#post-4776313

  13. Thanks JohnK, Mark Eaton thanked for this post
  14. #12
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    Thanks John. Still up in the air as to whether I use the FFR-provided lights or go with something else, but that's definitely good to know.
    MkIV Roadster build: Gen 2 Coyote, IRS, TKO600. Ordered 10/24/18. Delivered 1/29/19. Engine installed 8/8/21. First start 9/12/21. First go-kart 9/17/21. Off to paint 4/11/22. Back from paint 12/30/22. Build thread here.

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    Senior Member Hotyacht's Avatar
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    As an alternative, rather than use foam padding, I used two layers of leather. I don't particularly like the puffy padded look so the double layer of leather just adds enough spring and pad without looking like a bedhead.......just my opinion. I glued on the first layer and completely cut out the openings of the instruments and then did the pie cuts and wrapped around the final layer. Just be aware that if you use this method you need a glue that sets down flat - either a fine spray or spread it on thin with a flat spatula (like I did) if you have one of those cans that sprays splatty ribbons they will show through the leather.......sorry I dont have a close up detail shot, but I am very pleased with the result.
    IMG_3053.jpgIMG_2434.jpg54213649_10219744808719731_843896893967695872_n.jpg
    Last edited by Hotyacht; 04-11-2019 at 04:37 PM.
    FFR MkIV 8419 - Right Hand Drive
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    Senior Member edwardb's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Hotyacht View Post
    As an alternative, rather than use foam padding, I used two layers of leather. I don't particularly like the puffy padded look so the double layer of leather just adds enough spring and pad without looking like a bedhead.......just my opinion.
    What you did looks nice and is certainly a good option. I agree with you. I don't care for the puffy look either. I too played around with double layers. Two vinyl, one vinyl + one leather, two leather. Then found the 1/8-inch Closed Cell 2A Volara Foam Landau Padding, plus decided to go ahead with leather. I found the 1/8-inch closed cell foam gave a nice sculpted look without being puffy under a single layer of leather. It doesn't look like the much thicker open cell foam padding included in the kit. These pictures give a little bit of an idea. I also decided to put the steering wheel on the left side.



    Last edited by edwardb; 04-11-2019 at 05:07 PM.
    Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build Thread
    Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread and Video
    Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. LS3 and 4L65E auto. Rcvd 01/05/2021. Legal 04/20/2023. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023.

  17. #15
    David aka Ducky2009 Ducky2009's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by JohnK View Post
    Thanks John. Still up in the air as to whether I use the FFR-provided lights or go with something else, but that's definitely good to know.
    Check your gauges. I ordered the Vintage gauges with my kit (delivered early 2017) and they have turn signal and high been indicator lights built into the speedo. Older gauges did not have them. Not sure about the other available gauge options.

    I might be ahead of your build status, BUT, read up on body fitment. The body lip at the dash and rear cockpit wall needs a little trimming for a proper fit. If you don't trim, the body will rub against the dash and could dig into the leather. Ask me how I know. It left a small indentation, but luckily didn't tear the leather and you can't see it.
    Last edited by Ducky2009; 04-11-2019 at 07:03 PM.
    MK4 Build #9035 Delivered 2/17/17, First Start & Go-Kart 6/2/17, Licensed 9/1/17
    Paint - Lightning Blue Metallic, No Hood Scoop, No Stripes
    Gen 2 Coyote Engine & TKO-600. Solid Axle, 8.8-3.55, Power Steering, Power Brakes, Dual Roll Bars
    Heater and Glove Box, Drop Trunk, Wipers, Radio, FFR Vintage Gauges, Custom Dash
    Build Thread: http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showt...MK4-Build-9035

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    where did you get the finger handle for your glove box lock, i've been trying to find one

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    Senior Member edwardb's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by clancypm View Post
    where did you get the finger handle for your glove box lock, i've been trying to find one
    If that's for me, it's a VW 111857131L glove box lock. Pretty widely available at VW outlets including eBay where I've found them regularly. Looks good but also like how it works. Has a spring loaded latch with a pushbutton, and you only need the key if you want to lock it. I learned about it from another forum post a number of years ago and have now used it on several builds.
    Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build Thread
    Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread and Video
    Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. LS3 and 4L65E auto. Rcvd 01/05/2021. Legal 04/20/2023. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023.

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    Senior Member lewma's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by edwardb View Post
    If that's for me, it's a VW 111857131L glove box lock. Pretty widely available at VW outlets including eBay where I've found them regularly. Looks good but also like how it works. Has a spring loaded latch with a pushbutton, and you only need the key if you want to lock it. I learned about it from another forum post a number of years ago and have now used it on several builds.
    Where did you get the chromed grab handle below the glovebox ?

    thanks!
    mark
    Build 1: Mk4 Complete Kit #9312 Ordered 1/27/18, Delivered 3/24/18, CA SB100 Registered 9/11/19 - Gen 2 Coyote TKO600, IRS, Power Steering, Wilwood Brakes, 17" Halibrand
    Build 2: Gen3 Coupe Complete Kit #309 Ordered 1/25/21, Delivered 6/9/21 - BluePrint GM 427 LS T56, IRS, AC, Power Steering

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    Senior Member edwardb's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by lewma View Post
    Where did you get the chromed grab handle below the glovebox ?

    thanks!
    mark
    The handle is from Eddie Marine, their part number 275-24P Grab Handle, Aluminum, Polished. Have used it a couple times. Nice and solid with this steel fabricated mount.



    Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build Thread
    Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread and Video
    Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. LS3 and 4L65E auto. Rcvd 01/05/2021. Legal 04/20/2023. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023.

  22. #20
    Senior Member Joel Hauser's Avatar
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    In NY State, the dash and visors must be padded. I know, it's ridiculous, but that's the rule in NY.

  23. #21
    Senior Member lewma's Avatar
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    Thanks!
    Build 1: Mk4 Complete Kit #9312 Ordered 1/27/18, Delivered 3/24/18, CA SB100 Registered 9/11/19 - Gen 2 Coyote TKO600, IRS, Power Steering, Wilwood Brakes, 17" Halibrand
    Build 2: Gen3 Coupe Complete Kit #309 Ordered 1/25/21, Delivered 6/9/21 - BluePrint GM 427 LS T56, IRS, AC, Power Steering

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    Quote Originally Posted by edwardb View Post
    What you did looks nice and is certainly a good option. I agree with you. I don't care for the puffy look either. I too played around with double layers. Two vinyl, one vinyl + one leather, two leather. Then found the 1/8-inch Closed Cell 2A Volara Foam Landau Padding, plus decided to go ahead with leather. I found the 1/8-inch closed cell foam gave a nice sculpted look without being puffy under a single layer of leather. It doesn't look like the much thicker open cell foam padding included in the kit. These pictures give a little bit of an idea. I also decided to put the steering wheel on the left side.



    Great looking dash, Paul. You always so superb work.

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    thanks ed

  26. #24
    Senior Member mlewis's Avatar
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    Anyone have experience wrapping the FF updated dash with leather ?
    Mk4 #9165, Base Kit with lots of options, Delivery on 08/17/2017, Coyote, TKO600, 2015 IRS, 18" Halibrands, 12.99" Wilwoods

  27. #25
    Senior Member mlewis's Avatar
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    The handle is from Eddie Marine, their part number 275-24P Grab Handle, Aluminum, Polished. Have used it a couple times. Nice and solid with this steel fabricated mount
    Paul, I like that handle as well. When I asked Eddie Marine, they say it comes with the handle only (not bracket). Did you order directly from them ? Did it all come under one part number ?

    Thanks,

    Mark
    Mk4 #9165, Base Kit with lots of options, Delivery on 08/17/2017, Coyote, TKO600, 2015 IRS, 18" Halibrands, 12.99" Wilwoods

  28. #26
    Senior Member edwardb's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by mlewis View Post
    Paul, I like that handle as well. When I asked Eddie Marine, they say it comes with the handle only (not bracket). Did you order directly from them ? Did it all come under one part number ?

    Thanks,

    Mark
    Only the handle is from Eddie Marine. The bracket pieces pictured I fabricated myself. They're custom to the Roadster dash and frame. Sorry I didn't make that more clear.
    Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build Thread
    Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread and Video
    Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. LS3 and 4L65E auto. Rcvd 01/05/2021. Legal 04/20/2023. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023.

  29. #27
    Senior Member mlewis's Avatar
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    ahh that makes sense. I like the bar and was hoping for on less item to fabricate.

    BTW - nice work
    Mk4 #9165, Base Kit with lots of options, Delivery on 08/17/2017, Coyote, TKO600, 2015 IRS, 18" Halibrands, 12.99" Wilwoods

  30. #28
    Boydster's Avatar
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    I also got a marine-supplied bar, from West Marine. But I only used a 1/8"thick aluminum doubler behind the dash. With the dash screwed to brackets up top and a Mike Everson / Replicaparts under dash filler panel, its nice and secure. I like Pauls brackets, but I'm not that good with steel.

    panic-bar-1.jpg
    ---Boyd---
    MkIV #9042 build thread
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    427W, TKO600, Moser 3.55 rear.
    Delivered Feb 2017, Graduated Nov 4, 2019

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