Dashboard install

[tmoretta]

Mounting my 818S dashboard, as per FFR directions, I see that only two aluminum mounts are used to attach the dash to the cockpit frame. I am thinking of making a few clips of some sort to fix the dash to the windshield surround. It seems to me that the dash, without forward support, will bounce around/rattle like crazy. Any experience or ideas?

[freds]

I agree. I made two extra mounts, similar to the ones FFR supplied. NO photos sorry.
I have an early unit #18 with a two piece front & top. The only tip I have is: Use bolts through the support frame member and remember to notch the lower lip of the dashboard so that you can use a socket wrench with extension to get to them & loosen them if ever you have to. .don't know if they are one piece now? I have had occasion to remove the dash as I added gauges to my console, and it would have been much more difficult if I hadn't notched for "easy (ha-ha)" access.

fred

[AZPete]

For the upper dash I put some rubber channel on the leading edge of the dash that wedges into the windshield surround and it keeps it firm. I agree that the 2 supplied mounting brackets for the bottom of the dash are too "bendy" so made two 4-inch wide brackets of steel. I'll also get more support from the console I'm working on now.

[Tamra]

We used good velcro on the front sections of the dash under the windshield. It's not visible with it installed, and it keeps it down very securely.

[Canadian818]

We used good velcro on the front sections of the dash under the windshield. It's not visible with it installed, and it keeps it down very securely.

Great idea! I'll be copying you, thanks.

[Frank818]

My dash moves forward if I press on it "gently" and it's not sitting flat on the surrounds all around. Can't drive like that, too fragile. I will copy Tamra and use velcros (I use that in many other places, didn't think of that one!).