Dash Pad preservation
 

The original dashpad for my 68 GTO is in storage right now (if you call sitting on a shelf "in storage"). It's got one crack in a fairly out of way spot, about 3" long. I'm trying to keep it that way.

Any tips for storage, and "stuff" like Armor All to help preserve it. It's quite delicate and you might imagine. Stiff, but not rock hard, there are places with flex left ...but a punch and it would crack I'm sure. Should I bag it? It will be stored another 18 months or so.
JohnnyB

I would blanket & plastic wrap & box it up. Can't comment on what to apply to it. I have mine in the attic so nothing can accidently happen......

I'd put it under the bed in the spare bedroom, or someplace similar - you want it laying flat so it won't warp, and in a location where it won't get bumped and stuff won't get piled on it. Also, it should be a location that doesn't get too hot or cold.

Armor All sure won't hurt it, and it's better than nothing. ;)

I wouldn't use Armor All on anything. One, it's full of silicone, two it's been known in the past to dry stuff out. Maybe it has changed since the 80's.

baby oil will help soften it

Yeah but it takes several babies to get enough oil. :D

I would try to keep it in conditioned space if possible where temperature variance is at a minimum. I stored my "perfect" 67 dash in the attic for about 5 years. Wasn't perfect anymore when I removed it-very brittle and had to get another.

I've seen Armour all turn black dashes white over time from use. I used baby oil.

One word= Vaseline

I will certainly try some vaseline .... the orginal vinyl used back in the day is/was a petroleum product correct? Does seem like baby oil or vaseline might work in that case.
JohnnyB