dash swap

[big.45]

I have an 80 gmc and want to put in the newer 81-87 dash.
Can I do this, and what all will I have to change?(Gauage cluster, bezel)

[454ss]

Everything is a bolt in. I don't think there were any changes in gauge wiring either.

[Swims350]

ok when you say dash what part do you mean the soft top dash pad? the cluster of gauges, the gauge surround?

[VileZambonie]

If you are referring to the pad, you will need to change many things. Nothing will interchange correctly without a few swap items. The 1980 dash bezel gauge cluster mount and alignment will be off with the 81 up dash, wiper switch would have to use an early bezel, the pad, the insert panel, and a few other minor differences. Why do you want to change it anyway?

[big.45]

I need a new dash pad, this one has a cap on it and the whole thing is twisted and looks bad. I saw I could get a factory new one from the website for 81-87, and I like the look of them. I haven't seen new dash pads for the 80.

I know I will need a dash bezel 81-83.

Will I also need the part that holds the gauges that bolts to the dash(the white piece)?

What other Items would I need?

Would it look factory once I got all the parts required?

[Old77]

As far as looking stock, it should as long as you do it correctly and get all the necessary parts that you need. If it was me, I'd look really hard at just getting a correct dash pad for 1980, though, as moving up to an 81-87 is not a significant improvement compared to the work that'd be involved. just my .02

[Swims350]

the 81-87 door panels match the 88+ dashes and vice versa, so in order to look factory the door panels need switched too. I'd look into making the cap fit it, or straighten yours out first. If not search online or ebay or google for a 73-80 dash pad.

[Captkaos]

Cheyenne pickup has the best quality skinned 73-80 dashes last time I checked.

[VileZambonie]

I would go with the 73-80 dash. It has a nice classic look and I found a mint NOS one on eBay a few months back for about $250 bucks that I bought.

[Swims350]

I agree I love pretty much everything about a 73-80.