Center Dash Panel Crack

[Barrels]

I have a bulge and two cracks in the center dash panel of my 03. The bulge is between the two bottom gauges and the cracks are at the top and bottom of the bulge. All this can kinda be seen in the following pics:

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I am going to install some dynaliner under the center console to mitigate the heat I get from the area around the shifter. I figured I should probably replace this panel at the same time. Before I do...
1. Is this normal? If so, why does it happen?
2. Does anyone have a replacement I can take off their hands? This may be a dumb question, but I think some people buy aftermarket replacements and might be willing to part with a stocker.
3. I would like to replace the bolts that hold this piece on as they look old and corroded. Does anyone know the part number?

 

[wikkid]

Have never seen this happen before.Gotta be related to heat, but new to me.

 

[FLATOUT]

Never seen that either.

 

[DMan]

I replaced my GenIV bezels and have my stockers in a box. Not sure if they fit the Gen3, I wasn't thinking to sell, but if you have a need maybe I would. Not sure what they are worth ...

 

[Barrels]

Could have been from the stereo install I guess. Previous owner had it done.

 

[Barrels]

Bizump! Ok, so I guess this was either related to heat or a hasty stereo installation. Either way, can anyone help me out with the other two questions. Does anyone have a spare to spare, and does anyone know how I can track down some replacement bolts?

 

[wikkid]

If i were you, i would change it out with the carbon fiber dash and console. I had that on my previous Viper and it was sharp. Nothing special about those dash bolts, take a walk into ace hardware with a bolt and they will line you up. Its pretty crazy what that place has come up with for me. Might not be home depot, but usually they know where and what the hell your talking about.

 

[Barrels]

If i were you, i would change it out with the carbon fiber dash and console. I had that on my previous Viper and it was sharp. Nothing special about those dash bolts, take a walk into ace hardware with a bolt and they will line you up. Its pretty crazy what that place has come up with for me. Might not be home depot, but usually they know where and what the hell your talking about.

Thanks for the advice, but I want to keep the stock look. I was hoping that someone who made the switch would have a stock unit taking up space in their garage that I could buy off of them...any takers?

 

[DMan]

Thanks for the advice, but I want to keep the stock look. I was hoping that someone who made the switch would have a stock unit taking up space in their garage that I could buy off of them...any takers?

If we can confirm gen3 and gen4 comparability I have a set from my conversion to TF ones.

 

[Chelseasnake]

If we can confirm gen3 and gen4 comparability I have a set from my conversion to TF ones.

they are the same

 

[Barrels]

DMan, you have a PM.

 

[SFViper]

A set of chrome gauge bezels should be able to cover that gap and also make your dash look a lot better!

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http://www.mgwltd.com/viper_gauge_bezel_srt.shtml

 

[mjorgensen Woodhouse]

I have never seen this happen either, you may find something from the stereo install smashed under the panel between those 2 bolts. You may want to buy the after market Mopar panels if no one wants to part with their take outs, they are a TON cheaper then the factory ones are.