Fiberglass dashboard, Modify or use original to as a form to build new one?

[MichaelLeeHearn]

The dashboard that come with my RCR40 is made from fiberglass. I am not planning on using the stock style gauge layout. Instead I am planning on using RacePaK IQ3 digital dash and a few other gauges from them also.



I am also going to be making a few other mods to the dash for the A/C system duct work and defroster vents. I also plan on removing the corners around the roll cage so I can make it to where I can remove the dash with the windshield and body on the car, in-case I need to work on the wiring or anything also.


So I can either cut-up the dash to modify it and use it as is or modify it and use it as a form to build a new one.

If I use the one supplied with the car as a form, I think it will be easier to make the changes I need to and make it look a lot better. Plus be able to lay out my switches everything better.Here a few pictures of the supplied dashboard, a few pics are of Right hand drive version, but are good pics of the gauge layout.Attachment 69807Attachment 69808Attachment 69809Attachment 69810

[T.K.]

modify the existing hands down. you dont need to layup each mod separate. you will pretty much need to cut, buildup, refoam, reshape etc each mod individually. you can glass over multiple features at once or even the whole dash at once. if you make a female mold you still have to make every mod that you want to make to the mold (in negative), then layup the whole dash in the new mold. that is a lot more time and material.

the only reasons to make the mold are 1) you want a longer continuity in the glass strads through the piece (structural) 2) saving two ounces of weight makes a big difference