View Full Version : Carbon Fiber dash with hidden mounts?
dbo_texas
01-07-2022, 05:33 PM
I'm not super keen on having the dash mount screws visible from the cockpit. I know several builders have made custom L-brackets that mount to the back side of the dash (EdwardB's 20th anniversary build is a good example), and then screw into the underside of the frame dash hoop. I was planning to do the same, but I ended up getting the carbon fiber dash and now I'm wondering the best way to mount it with hidden fasteners. What would be the best method to mount the L-bracket to the back side of the dash? On the aluminum dash, it looks like most use flush-mount screws which get covered by the dash leather/vinyl but I can't do that on the CF dash since there is no covering. Would it be best to just epoxy the L-brackets to the back of the dash? Is that going to be strong enough? Has anyone done the hidden mount with a CF dash? I searched the forum but didn't see anything yet for this combo.
MVRight
01-07-2022, 05:49 PM
I think I did something like Edward on mine, and I think some others. I welded a could of thin metal to the frame bent as a L. I had an under dash panel so the dash hooked on the top under the brackets and screwed in the underside. It was a standard dash, so not sure if the carbon fiber one has a lip underneath to allow you to screw in, but that's how I did it with hidden fasteners. Can't see anything when mounted, and I did a carbon fiber veneer.
Have you considered using the 3M Dual Lock to attach the dash?
3M Dual Lock Reclosable Fasteners Heavy Duty Industrial Use Black TB3550 1" x 10 ft Mated Strip Indoor/Outdoor Use Great for Metal, Glass, Acrylic, PC, ABS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007OXK1AK/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_5M1ERRVE2CCF29Y3P38B?_en coding=UTF8&psc=1
dbo_texas
01-07-2022, 05:55 PM
Have you considered using the 3M Dual Lock to attach the dash?
3M Dual Lock Reclosable Fasteners Heavy Duty Industrial Use Black TB3550 1" x 10 ft Mated Strip Indoor/Outdoor Use Great for Metal, Glass, Acrylic, PC, ABS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007OXK1AK/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_5M1ERRVE2CCF29Y3P38B?_en coding=UTF8&psc=1
Papa - yeah I did consider that. Where would you attach the dual-lock? To some brackets, or just directly onto the rear of the dash and the front face of the frame hoop? Have others used this on the dash successfully? I want to make sure it is secure. I know that dual-lock has one hell of a shear strength so it does seem like it would be pretty solid as long as the adhesive doesn't give out. Seems like removing the dash would be more of a PITA if you use too much!
Papa - yeah I did consider that. Where would you attach the dual-lock? To some brackets, or just directly onto the rear of the dash and the front face of the frame hoop? Have others used this on the dash successfully? I want to make sure it is secure. I know that dual-lock has one hell of a shear strength so it does seem like it would be pretty solid as long as the adhesive doesn't give out. Seems like removing the dash would be more of a PITA if you use too much!
I used it on my trans tunnel cover, and it is solid. A couple of pieces where the dash contacts the frame would work. Do you plan to do any mounts on the bottom? Look at GTBradley's build. I know he used it on his dash.
dbo_texas
01-07-2022, 06:46 PM
I used it on my trans tunnel cover, and it is solid. A couple of pieces where the dash contacts the frame would work. Do you plan to do any mounts on the bottom? Look at GTBradley's build. I know he used it on his dash.
OK cool I'll look at GTBradley's build. And yes I am planning to use the under-dash panel so that should help too.
egchewy79
01-07-2022, 08:39 PM
I used the 3M dual lock on the face of L brackets bolted to the dash hoop and on the back of my dash. not worried about it moving at all. I also put in some of the under-dash support aluminum as well. I don't think it's going anywhere.
mikeinatlanta
01-08-2022, 07:49 AM
Bonded brackets will have adequate strength, however, if you go that route the appropriate adhesive would be a urethane, not epoxy. Epoxy and vinylester don't mix well and the epoxy doesn't do well with flexible parts.
ydousurf
01-08-2022, 09:27 AM
I'm planning on using hidden brackets as well, since I don't care for the screws through the dash attachment method. Even though it's original and does look pretty good on some, I'm not so sure on the carbon fiber dashes? Not bashing those who go that route, it's a personal preference and I just want to not have the screws showing on the dash. I also plan to have lower braces to help with the support and securing the dash.
With that said and as mentioned, use (CRP or CFRP) for the bonding adhesive.
I'm sure the dual-lock would work just fine. However, my concern would be with future removal and getting the two side to seperate with no damage? Also, keep in mind the lip of thr body hanging down, so choose the location(s) wisely too. I suspect that a little of that stuff will go a long way!
I'm months away from building my dash, so I'll be following along on your execution to mount yours. Keep up the great work, Darryl!
They do make different versions of the Dual Lock with different hold strengths. Also, if the adhesive comes loose if/when you need to remove the dash, just put a new piece on when you reinstall the dash. You'll want to give yourself about 1/2" of space between the body roll and dash, which will give you room to get it apart if needed.