Going to the dark side, need some help... - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

low'n slow · 06-27-2010, 08:24 PM

I'm going to cut my dash for a decent radio. Should I use a cut off wheel or tin snips? I really don't want to have to repaint.

Thanks.

Newtz67 · 06-27-2010, 08:36 PM

I will not help you cut up your dash!

**jaros44sr** · 06-27-2010, 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Newtz67

I will not help you cut up your dash!

You'll never get the angle you need with the shears imo. I would try the cut off wheel, I have a Dremel with a 1" cut off, but the heat worries me and the fact that it is hard to cut a strait line. Maybe make some sorta fence for a guide.

LMK if you want to borrow my Dremel, got a new box cutoffs with a quik disconnect

BUT, that all being said, I wouldn't cut my dash

Wifey bought me a real nice AM/FM retro radio for Christmas, but first I have to fix my dash from the PO hacking it up

Also what about that guy that was making alum. bezels

low'n slow · 06-27-2010, 10:15 PM

Congrats on the Christmas present. I have a Custom Auto Sound in the 72. Can't stand it.

I'm worried about the heat too. I'll send you the pieces to fix yours

NuBomb · 06-27-2010, 10:45 PM

Check out the retrosound models. I think they have better reviews than the custom autosound models and the new models are more powerful than the model I have.

trz1000 · 06-28-2010, 01:34 AM

use a cut-off wheel or a sawzall. I like an air cut-off tool with a 1/16" wheel. Never tried with a Dremel but it would probably work ok. I've done it successfully with a sawzall but it's not my first recommendation. If you go the sawzall route, make sure you're good at wielding it as you can make a big mess real fast is you're not. You can make very straight and clean cuts with a cut-off tool. Curves however, are a pain in the butt. If you've never used one, practice a lot and make sure to hold it with two hands if at all possible. It may just be me but I find it much easier to hold a line with a cut-off tool than a Dremel even with a bulky air hose that's always in the way.

Anyway you go, make sure to tape the line you want to cut and the surrounding areas (I use the blue scotch masking tape as it's real easy to remove). You shouldn't affect the paint in any area that isn't covered with the radio bezel. Cut right through the tape. If you're super paranoid about heat, do a little at a time and let things cool in between cuts.

Don't know about the Dremel but a cut-off tool will throw some sparks.

Sure I don't have to say it but, measure, measure, measure. Then mock up a cut line then measure again. If anything cut it small. Using a cut-off tool it's very easy to enlarge and shape the cut out. If you cut it to big you'll have to get creative to make the installation look gook.

Good Luck!

low'n slow · 06-28-2010, 09:50 PM

Thanks. I think I will just use the tape and 4" grinder with a cutoff blade in it.

red71cheyenne · 06-28-2010, 11:11 PM

I know, evil, but I used a sawzall for the big cuts and a hacksaw blade by hand for the finish cuts. Didn't own a dremel at that time, and I think the hacksaw was easier. I don't know if my dremel could make the corner cuts in the depression around the radio.

Sillyoldman · 06-28-2010, 11:19 PM

Reciprocating sawzall would be my first choice.

**jaros44sr** · 06-28-2010, 11:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by red71cheyenne

I know, evil, but I used a sawzall for the big cuts and a hacksaw blade by hand for the finish cuts. Didn't own a dremel at that time, and I think the hacksaw was easier. I don't know if my dremel could make the corner cuts in the depression around the radio.

Didn't think about the hacksaw blade, that could very well work!

low'n slow · 06-29-2010, 10:59 PM

But why do things the easy way when you can really screw it up?

Cap'n Hook · 06-30-2010, 06:28 PM

That retrosound radio looks nice, but $299 is hard to swallow!

red71cheyenne · 06-30-2010, 07:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by low'n slow

But why do things the easy way when you can really screw it up?

Have you been hiding somewhere and watching me work?

**jaros44sr** · 06-30-2010, 08:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by low'n slow

But why do things the easy way when you can really screw it up?

Quote:

Originally Posted by red71cheyenne

Have you been hiding somewhere and watching me work?

Now you's guys are just downright funny...seems like any time I add a motor, I can screw it up that much faster

Mike C · 06-30-2010, 10:14 PM

Tape the dash up. 4" above and below the opening if you can. Measure 14 times, cut once, right? Use the finest tooth blade you can get for a jig saw. NOT a sawzall. The cutoff wheel in a Dremel is second best IMO, but the 3" cutoff is too much.

**jaros44sr** · 06-30-2010, 10:35 PM

My luck, I would cut it 14 times and it would still be too big!

71RestoRod · 06-30-2010, 11:58 PM

If you must... two or three layers of painters tape, a sharpie and a body saw will give you the best results. Start on the tight side and file to fit.

Longblock · 07-01-2010, 12:51 PM

I cut the piss out of my wires with the Sawzall on a Scout once......I also burnt carpet and wires with a angle grinder......the Dremel...hacksaw blade works best...low sparks/heat...

low'n slow · 07-01-2010, 11:00 PM

I do have a jigsaw I bought new last year and haven't used yet. I forgt I had it until today. I will probably use that.

BIGBLU 72 · 07-02-2010, 03:16 PM

if you have a centre console just hide it in the console! works great in my 72 and i filled the hole with a raidio delete plate

Bentblazer · 07-03-2010, 07:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by low'n slow

Congrats on the Christmas present. I have a Custom Auto Sound in the 72. Can't stand it.

I'm worried about the heat too. I'll send you the pieces to fix yours

x2 On the Custom Auto Sound (JUNK) I'm going with the radio in the center console, would like to see pics if anyone has them.

low'n slow · 07-03-2010, 06:45 PM

Can't put it in the console as I never had one and now have a bench seat.

13lazer · 07-04-2010, 02:24 PM

here's a thought that i never got around to trying. put your new radio in the glove box and use a remote to control it. the cardboard liner in the glove box is easy and cheap to replace, and there's a lot of room in there.

Cap'n Hook · 07-05-2010, 10:27 AM

I currently have mine in the glove box like 13lazer suggested, but find myself constantly leaning over to open the glove box door to adjust something with the remote. I will be moving it somewhere more accessible!

NuBomb · 07-05-2010, 11:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cap'n Hook

I currently have mine in the glove box like 13lazer suggested, but find myself constantly leaning over to open the glove box door to adjust something with the remote. I will be moving it somewhere more accessible!

I agree with Cap. I had mine in the glovebox (even bought insert from board member Kelsfine) and I found it to be a pain. That is why I bought the retrosound.

06-27-2010, 08:24 PM	#1
low'n slow Too Dumb To Know Better Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 882	Going to the dark side, need some help... I'm going to cut my dash for a decent radio. Should I use a cut off wheel or tin snips? I really don't want to have to repaint. Thanks.

06-27-2010, 08:36 PM	#2
Newtz67 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: A t w a t e r, Ca Posts: 1,201	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... I will not help you cut up your dash! __________________ My '67 short wide Our '68 Burb My '04 Z71 The '54 Belair The '69 Cadillac

06-27-2010, 10:15 PM	#4
low'n slow Too Dumb To Know Better Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 882	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... Congrats on the Christmas present. I have a Custom Auto Sound in the 72. Can't stand it. I'm worried about the heat too. I'll send you the pieces to fix yours

06-27-2010, 10:45 PM	#5
NuBomb Registered User Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Canton, Georgia, USA Posts: 1,119	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... Check out the retrosound models. I think they have better reviews than the custom autosound models and the new models are more powerful than the model I have. __________________ Jeremy (NUBOMB) 72K5 CST 350/350/205 1951 Chevy 1/2 ton North Georgia Group "... And the first rule to being a man is you gotta spend your life doing crap you don't wanna do." Red Forman. Last edited by NuBomb; 06-27-2010 at 10:49 PM. Reason: misspelling

06-28-2010, 01:34 AM	#6
trz1000 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Portland, OR Posts: 95	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... use a cut-off wheel or a sawzall. I like an air cut-off tool with a 1/16" wheel. Never tried with a Dremel but it would probably work ok. I've done it successfully with a sawzall but it's not my first recommendation. If you go the sawzall route, make sure you're good at wielding it as you can make a big mess real fast is you're not. You can make very straight and clean cuts with a cut-off tool. Curves however, are a pain in the butt. If you've never used one, practice a lot and make sure to hold it with two hands if at all possible. It may just be me but I find it much easier to hold a line with a cut-off tool than a Dremel even with a bulky air hose that's always in the way. Anyway you go, make sure to tape the line you want to cut and the surrounding areas (I use the blue scotch masking tape as it's real easy to remove). You shouldn't affect the paint in any area that isn't covered with the radio bezel. Cut right through the tape. If you're super paranoid about heat, do a little at a time and let things cool in between cuts. Don't know about the Dremel but a cut-off tool will throw some sparks. Sure I don't have to say it but, measure, measure, measure. Then mock up a cut line then measure again. If anything cut it small. Using a cut-off tool it's very easy to enlarge and shape the cut out. If you cut it to big you'll have to get creative to make the installation look gook. Good Luck!

06-28-2010, 09:50 PM	#7
low'n slow Too Dumb To Know Better Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 882	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... Thanks. I think I will just use the tape and 4" grinder with a cutoff blade in it.

06-28-2010, 11:11 PM	#8
red71cheyenne Back in the sticks Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Fordland, MO Posts: 3,188	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... I know, evil, but I used a sawzall for the big cuts and a hacksaw blade by hand for the finish cuts. Didn't own a dremel at that time, and I think the hacksaw was easier. I don't know if my dremel could make the corner cuts in the depression around the radio. __________________ 1971 Cheyenne C-10 w/700R4 and Tuned Port Injection 1969 K5 Blazer w/Tuned Port 2010 2SS/RS Flaming Orange Camaro 2011 K1500 Suburban 2014 K1500 Pickup 2008 Nissan Altima? The wifes' hoopty

06-28-2010, 11:19 PM	#9
Sillyoldman #16876 Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Auburn WA Posts: 12,266	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... Reciprocating sawzall would be my first choice. __________________ Posted via Stationary Device '71 Custom Deluxe C-20 402. '67 Buick Special 455. '49 Plymouth Special Deluxe. *"I love that old car smell"* *Some people are like Slinkies... not really good for anything, but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs.*

06-29-2010, 10:59 PM	#11
low'n slow Too Dumb To Know Better Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 882	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... But why do things the easy way when you can really screw it up?

06-30-2010, 06:28 PM	#12
Cap'n Hook Workin to live... Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Texas Hill Country Posts: 261	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... That retrosound radio looks nice, but $299 is hard to swallow! __________________ Jason

06-30-2010, 10:14 PM	#15
Mike C Registered User Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Austin, TX, USA Posts: 7,727	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... Tape the dash up. 4" above and below the opening if you can. Measure 14 times, cut once, right? Use the finest tooth blade you can get for a jig saw. NOT a sawzall. The cutoff wheel in a Dremel is second best IMO, but the 3" cutoff is too much. __________________ 44 Willys MB 52 M38A1 64 Corvette Coupe 68 Camaro 'vert LT1 & TH700 69 Z/28 355 12.6's @110 69 Chevy Short Step 4 1/2"/7" drop 72 Jimmy 4WD 4spd 4" & 35's 02 GMC 2500HD 4x4 Duramax

06-30-2010, 10:35 PM	#16
jaros44sr Senior Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Philadelphia, Pa. 19454 Posts: 9,761	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... My luck, I would cut it 14 times and it would still be too big! __________________ Semper Fi...Uncle Sam, you da man All parts offered to help are free, unless otherwise noted Dont try this stuff in my build thread, unless you have 55 years of mechanical OTJ training SAFETY FIRST AS usual, off topic They say your mind goes second, can't remember the first Jim

06-30-2010, 11:58 PM	#17
71RestoRod Registered User Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Evergreen, CO Posts: 492	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... If you must... two or three layers of painters tape, a sharpie and a body saw will give you the best results. Start on the tight side and file to fit. __________________ 71 Blazer / GMPP ZZ383 / MPFI / 700R4 / 4-Wheel Disk / Ground-up frame off almost completed resto-mod

07-01-2010, 12:51 PM	#18
Longblock Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Anna, Texas Posts: 64	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... I cut the piss out of my wires with the Sawzall on a Scout once......I also burnt carpet and wires with a angle grinder......the Dremel...hacksaw blade works best...low sparks/heat...

07-01-2010, 11:00 PM	#19
low'n slow Too Dumb To Know Better Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 882	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... I do have a jigsaw I bought new last year and haven't used yet. I forgt I had it until today. I will probably use that.



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07-02-2010, 03:16 PM	#20
BIGBLU 72 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Ashland, KY Posts: 700	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... if you have a centre console just hide it in the console! works great in my 72 and i filled the hole with a raidio delete plate __________________ 68 C10 LWB 2/4 drop 406/th400/3.73posi 04 Silverado SS LQ9 6.0/4L65e/4.11posi AWD

07-03-2010, 06:45 PM	#22
low'n slow Too Dumb To Know Better Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 882	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... Can't put it in the console as I never had one and now have a bench seat.

07-04-2010, 02:24 PM	#23
13lazer 13lazers' blazers Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: San Pedro, CA Posts: 152	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... here's a thought that i never got around to trying. put your new radio in the glove box and use a remote to control it. the cardboard liner in the glove box is easy and cheap to replace, and there's a lot of room in there. __________________ 1970 2wd blazer 1972 1ton blazer 4x4 in progress 1966 mustang coupe (modified) 1985 c20 suburban tow rig 1996 462 ranger with a 150 efi merc. a former B.A.S.S. tournament boat almost all exempt from california smog laws intentionally.

07-05-2010, 10:27 AM	#24
Cap'n Hook Workin to live... Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Texas Hill Country Posts: 261	Re: Going to the dark side, need some help... I currently have mine in the glove box like 13lazer suggested, but find myself constantly leaning over to open the glove box door to adjust something with the remote. I will be moving it somewhere more accessible! __________________ Jason

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