[69Customs]

Hi all. Picked up a 69 tempest dash that does not have the astro vents( must of been from a 4 door with wing windows).
Want to know if I have a plastic cap with astro vents, what's the possibilities that I can cut astro vents into this dash by laying the cap over it, and have it looking ok.
I would find the center of the astro vents by laying the cap over it, then drill an 1/8 locating hole thru the center of it. Turn over to the back and with a cut off wheel cut out the metal backing, flip to the front, with razor blade cut out an X, corner to corner, fold and glue that vinyl to the back. Then put the cap on.

Would the astro vents look like factory? Would. The plastic vent insert with the plastic cap cover it hide any inperfections. Has anyone ever did this?

I like the ideal of the plastic cap because it's a lot more stable the the original 56 year old vinyl and foam dash which all you have to do is sneeze on and it cracks.

Vinyl dash replacements are too expensive!

[433lemans]

Can't speak for modifying your cover, but I will say that when you install it, you will need a TON of tape, reinforcement supports, etc. anything to keep it conformed to your original dash until the "adhesive" sets. Don't skimp on this and you will be rewarded with a nice looking dash that will be hard to see that it's a cover. I did mine in my 69 Lemans many years ago and you still have to look close to see that it's a cover.
I will add that the opening edges for the vents are "rolled back" or radiused so not sure your plan will work, but maybe I'm not understanding what you are suggesting.
Good luck!

[Cammer-6]

Before you cut the metal shell,use it to help form the rolled edges of the hole.
Cut a hole into the foam and vinyl about half the size of the finished opening,using a hot knife.
Make a tapered plug out of wood,slightly smaller than the finished opening.
Carefully heat the foam and vinyl and pull the wooden plug into the opening using a thru bolt into metal shell.

[69Customs]

That's good advice cammer-6. Sounds like you may have done this before?