Aluminum Dash Panel, for Beetle 58-64

OVERVIEW

When it comes to restoring or customizing the interior of your vintage Volkswagen, nothing provides that clean, performance-oriented look quite like the EMPI Aluminum Dash Panel. Specifically designed for the 1958 through 1964 Beetle, this panel is the ultimate solution for owners dealing with dashboards that have been hacked up by previous owners for modern stereos or those simply looking to shed weight and add a "cal-look" or race-inspired aesthetic. We precision cut these panels from high-grade, thick aluminum sheet to ensure durability and a perfect fit over the existing factory dash area. The standout feature is the bead-rolled edge, which isn''t just for show; it provides significant structural rigidity to the panel, preventing vibration and "oil-canning" while you''re cruising down the highway or tearing up the dunes in a Baja conversion.

Beyond its structural benefits, this aluminum dash panel offers a blank canvas for the air-cooled enthusiast. Whether you are building a dedicated drag car, a rugged Baja Bug, or a sleek street cruiser, this panel integrates seamlessly with other interior upgrades. It is designed to be a perfect visual match for EMPI''s aluminum door panels, allowing you to create a cohesive, industrial-strength interior theme throughout the cabin. Because it comes in a raw aluminum finish, you have the flexibility to polish it to a mirror shine, give it a brushed "satin" look, or even powder coat it to match your vehicle''s exterior color scheme. It''s a versatile, high-quality component that instantly elevates the cockpit of any early-sixties Type 1, providing a professional finish that stock plastic or vinyl covers simply cannot match.

FITMENT

• 1958-1964 Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan)
• 1958-1964 Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sunroof Models)
• Custom Dune Buggies utilizing a 1958-1964 Beetle dash section
• Baja Bug Conversions based on 1958-1964 Type 1 chassis and bodies

SPECS

• Material: Heavy-duty, aircraft-grade thick aluminum sheet.
• Finish: Natural raw aluminum (can be polished, brushed, or painted).
• Construction: Precision cut for a direct fit over the 58-64 dash profile.
• Strength Feature: Integrated bead rolling for maximum panel stiffness.
• Mounting: Can be installed using pop-rivets, sheet metal screws, or Cleco fasteners.
• Manufacturer: EMPI.
• Part Number: 16-7550-0.
• Weight: Approximately 1.05 lbs.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Precision Gauge Layout and Cutting

Since this panel arrives as a blank slate, you have the freedom to mount your gauges exactly where you want them. Before cutting, cover the entire front of the panel with blue painter''s tape. This allows you to draw your layout with a pencil without marking the aluminum and protects the surface from scratches while you work. Always use a high-quality hole saw meant for metal and run it at a slower speed to prevent the aluminum from over-heating or "gumming up" the teeth of the saw. Once the holes are cut, use a deburring tool or a fine-grit round file to smooth the edges for a professional, factory-installed look.

Tip 2: Secure Mounting for Off-Road Use

If you are installing this dash in a Baja Bug or a vehicle that sees significant vibration, don''t rely on just a few screws. We recommend using stainless steel button-head Allen bolts with nyloc nuts for a secure, vibration-proof installation. If you prefer a more permanent race-look, high-quality aluminum pop-rivets are an excellent choice. To prevent any "rattling" between the aluminum panel and the original steel dash, apply a very thin layer of closed-cell foam tape or a few small beads of clear silicone to the back of the aluminum panel before final fastening. This acts as a gasket and eliminates any metal-on-metal noise.

Tip 3: Managing Sunlight and Glare

Raw aluminum looks fantastic, but it can create a significant amount of glare on the inside of your windshield when driving in bright sunlight. To combat this, many professional builders choose to give the top edge of the panel a "brushed" finish using a red Scotch-Brite pad. By rubbing the pad in one consistent direction, you create a satin finish that diffuses light rather than reflecting it directly into your eyes. Alternatively, you can clear-coat the panel with a matte or satin finish to preserve the raw look while significantly reducing the blinding reflections common with high-polish finishes.