Hello

I've completely removed the dash on my 1994 325i for weight reduction purposes.

I want to stay with the stock instrument cluster. What is the best way to secure the instrument cluster to the car? Anybody done this so far?? EDIT : ziptied down with seatbelt padding for insulation/shock protection ;)

The heater core is going out next. Just need figure out how to plumb the coolant to & return line from the heater core. (visible in the second picture)

http://shenoydesign.com/bmw/passtech/DSC00068.JPG
http://shenoydesign.com/bmw/passtech/DSC00070.JPG

can't help you with installing the instrument cluster sans dash. i removed everything and reinstalled the dash without heater core and sound deadening. does your class allow complete removal of the dash? EDIT - you would have to fabricate some sort of mount for the cluster.

as far as plumbing the coolant lines, see here (this is on my 93 325i):

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=608398

you have to block off the lines going through the firewall and splice the coolant lines together under the manifold.

added pictures. please check them out.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showpost.php?p=7366416&postcount=46

..

Once you gut everything, the dash really doesn't weight that much and is great for holding the stock gauge cluster.

val

IMO the car looks MUCH better with the dash installed. That said.. I would fabricate an aluminum sun shield over the top and attach it to the steering support.