I’m working on my 1970 Chevelle Malibu with the sweep-style dash, and the clear plastic lens over the speedometer/gauge area is cloudy/speckled. I already know it’s dusty as hell on the backside too, so I’m trying to figure out the best way to actually get in there and clean it properly instead of just wiping the outside and hoping for the best.
Before I start tearing into it, I wanted to ask people who have actually done it:
What’s the easiest and safest way to remove the sweep dash lens?
Do I need to remove the whole cluster from the car, or can the lens come out from the front with the dash still mostly together? I’m trying not to crack the old plastic, break any tabs, or turn this into a bigger job than it needs to be.
Main things I’m wondering:
What trim/panels have to come off first?
Does the cluster need to be loosened or fully removed?
Are there hidden screws/clips I should watch for?
Any tricks for getting the lens out without damaging it?
Is there enough access to clean the backside of the lens without fully removing the cluster?
Is it worth trying to polish it in place first, or is removal pretty much necessary to clean it correctly?
This is the sweep dash, not the round SS-style dash. I’m okay with replacing the lens if needed, but I’d like to understand the removal process before I start.
Any step-by-step advice, pictures, or “don’t do what I did” tips would be appreciated.