Dash installation.
I decided to install the windshield first as it was easier to pull the string with the dash out.
The rear view mirror is mounted on the dash so it now would be a good time to make the holes for it. I used a hole punch but I just twisted it in to the dash material to make the holes.
The mirror looks like it had a fine wrinkle finish from the factory. I just sprayed it from a distance just “dusting” it with paint so it kept it’s finish. Looks good.
As you can see, there is not much fudge factor around the base, the holes have to be pretty exact. Mirror made by Wingard. Probable some emigrated Swede named Wingård!
You have to love this ornate design casting on the foot of the mirror. I know that Pelle Petterson’s original design was really space age but it’s neat that Volvo and the manufacturer added this touch.
Well, there it is. After two years, the dash is back where it belongs.
The old lock cylinder had scratches on the chrome and that is just not cool. It was replaced by a new unit with a snazzy “VOLVO” key.
Oh yeah, baby!
The passing horn stalk was not working so it was replaced with this reproduction part but I can’t say I like it. It appears to be zink plated as opposed to the original that is chrome plated. Also, it’s longer, the knob is different and the haptic feel sux donkey balls!
I did have a lot to say about this single item, didn’t I? Oh well, the sun will still go up in the west and I will get over this.
This is the steering column and it has roller bearings in each end. The bearings were removed, cleaned and lubed. This was covered in an earlier article.
Always good to test fit before install. I feel the switch is too close to the steering wheel and that could be a knuckle scratcher.
After some bending of the bracket, I can live with this.
The turn signal stalk in still the original part. It appears to work well so I am keeping it.
Steering column ready to go in the car.
Components that holds steering column to the car. It is kind of amazing, the amount of individual components that goes in to car. Imagine the designers and engineers that had to plan for every component to be made to specification, withing budget and on time!
Steering column in place.
Now I can connect the steering box with a new hardy disc.
The ground strap makes sure the upper part of the steering shaft is grounded so the horn button can activate…you know…the honking device!
Ever since I saw this picture of the 1800 prototype, I wanted a wood steering wheel in an 1800 car. I have seen some in the wild but I have been told that Volvo never made a wood steering wheel so I think they were made by individuals or possible aftermarket.
This is an aftermarket wheel with three spokes. Maybe made by Nardi or Motolita?
My friend Russ made this cherry wood steering wheel for me, using an original wheel as the base. We took a factory wheel and I removed the Bakelite leaving a thin steel rim. Then he applied his magic and came up with this! Thanks Russ!
He even made me a matching shift knob. Thanks Russ!
Next: Rear axle and interior. Keep on keeping on!
