Best way to close holes in metal dash

[Canonman67]

I'm going to eliminate the dash pad and go with the metal dash what's the best way to close the holes? Patch each individual hole or cut out areas like the speaker and fill with one larger piece of metal? I figure I'll fill the pad bolt holes one by one. Thanks for any help.

[sargentrs]

Welding patches on the under side of the dash is obviously the best method. However, many of us don't have the resources for welding. Here's a good thread where a member used some metal screen under the dash. He had some issues with it but it's a good idea. http://www.fordification.com/forum/view ... hp?t=51352 Or you find some thin sheet metal and also panel bond patches to the under side. Thin sheet metal can be cut with cheap tin snips. You mostly need something to adhere to the metal of the dash and that the body filler can adhere to also.

[67mann]

If you're a welder..just cut patches to drop in the already recessed areas of speakers and cut vent. The bolt holes can be done from underneath

[Canonman67]

Thank you gentlemen. And thanks for the pictures 67mann. I'll be keeping the defrost vents but the radio and bolt holes have to go. I can't get to the truck right now so I didn't realize the speaker was recessed, that'll make things easier. I guess I'll cut some strips for the bolt holes and it'll all be good.