Cutting the MK4 dash with glovebox

[wisel1]

Hello all.

I am almost done wiring my dash and have a question. The optional padded dash with glovebox I have has pre cut holes but I need to cut a few more for the toggle switches (Hazards, turn signals etc). Lots of post for dash cutting the bare aluminum but nothing on the finsihed dash. I need the smaller 1/2 inch holes but am reluctant to take a drill to it as there is no going back. Has anyone cut the new dash and if so, how did it work out? Did you use a hole saw, drill bit, etc? Did you cut from the back or front? Sorry if this is a basic question but i just don't want to mess it uo especially the front vinyl. thanks.

[chmhasy]

drill bits work fine. I liked the wood spade bits.

[Jdav]

I too had the premium dash with glovebox. I drilled a hole for my MIL light with a normal drill bit - just make sure it is a new one so it cuts more cleanly. I think I put painters tape over the area I was drilling and went from the front (but I cant remember for sure). The plastic cuts easy and the vinyl is pretty well adhered.

[DavidW]

I also have the vinyl dash with glove box. I used a step drill bit and started from the back. I opened the hole in increments with the step drill bit to 1/2" and cut away the pad part with a sharp blade as I went. It seemed the pad was on there really good I just wanted to be cautious.

[wisel1]

OK thanks for the reply guys. Going with a new bit and likely from the back. Will take it slow.

[JRL16]

I also used a step drill bit from the backside after a small pilot hole from the front. As long as your bits are sharp you shouldn’t have any problem.