[tgifford5]

I have a new dash carrier for my 69. When I recieved the new dash it had kind of a support bar/strap across the back between the two center gauges. Is that there for shipping purposes (support)? Or should it be removed before I install it into the dash? My old one, when removed, did not have it on. So that is why I am asking.

[KevinW]

It is there for extra support when the center is cut for a clock or center gas gauge. I would leave it in any case.

[tgifford5]

The issue then is that you can't flex the dash enough to get the mounting holes to line up.

[6781camaro]

Try lining up the dash panel mounting holes first--but don't tighten those screws all the way down yet.... then-- install that cross bar loosely... finish tightening the mounting screws and then go back to the cross support bar and tighten that to finish.

If not, it sounds like your upper dash panel may have been replaced at one time and may not have been aligned perfectly to allow the holes to line up. You could also always widen the holes as a last resort.

[Motown 454]

My original car had it from the factory.