Benevento™ Dash Kit
Installation Instructions

rvinyl guy

Step 1: Dry Fitment & Dash Panel Preparation

Test fit the pieces to make sure everything fits properly and that all edges are smooth. Occasionally, it may be necessary to sand down an edge with fine sand paper and then touch it up with a black magic marker. Installation should be done at a temperature of 70°F or more.

Prepare the surface by cleaning it with a clean soft rag.

Use the alcohol pads provided to clean each surface properly as the adhesive will not bond to oily surfaces.

Step 2: Test Adhesion

A good test is to see the surface has been adequately cleaned is to use masking tape to test the surface. If the masking tape sticks to the application surface without peeling up and delaminating then you may proceed. If it does not stick then further cleaning may be necessary. This is the most important step of the application process so please take the time to prepare the surface as we are not responsible for adhesion problems due to improper surface cleaning

Dash Kit Installation, Cleaning Your OEM Dash Trim

Step 3: Applying 3M Primer 94

Apply 3M adhesion promoter to the area covered by the wood dash kit. Carefully follow directions and precautions for use. (Note: Installation area should be well ventilated.)

  • Note: Do not touch or allow dust or dirt to touch the prepared area or the pressure sensitive backed adhesive. Body oils and contaminants will promote delamination.
  • Note: Do not apply and then reposition the piece as this will promote delamination. Attempt to align the piece and then apply it, if you remove the piece it will not properly adhere and may damage your factory trim.
Dash Kit with 3M VHB Backing

Step 4: Dash Kit Heating Technique

Briefly heat the front of the piece to be installed with a heat gun set on the lowest setting so that you can contour the piece to fit. (CAUTION: OVERHEATING CAN CAUSE CRACKING AND BENDING BACK AND FORTH WILL DAMAGE THE FINISH OF THE DAH KIT.)

Heat the red 3M liner on the underside of the piece until it wrinkles and then becomes smooth again. Remove the liner using the pull tab. Heat the gray adhesive tape until it achieves a high gloss. Again, Do not overheat.

  • Note: Adhesion may be difficult in cold weather, humid areas or if the surface has not been properly cleaned prior to application. The hotter the ambient temperature, the easier for adhesion to take place, but the more difficult it is for the application process.
Dash Kit Installation, Door Control Application

Step 5: Aligning Your Dash Kit

Carefully place one corner of the piece on the dash and check alignment. Once your placement is correct, press firmly on the entire surface to ensure proper bonding. ONCE THE PIECE IS APPLIED IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO REMOVE! If removal is necessary, lift one corner slightly while heating between the plastic surface and the adhesive while slowly lifting.

Allow the kit to cure for 48 hours, trim any extra covered area as desired with razor blade. Pieces may be heated with a hair dryer to insure adhesion and aid in the trimming process.

Repeat these steps for the remaining pieces.

Dash Kit Installation, Radio Trim Surround Installation

Step 6: Polishing Your Dash Kit

When you have finished with the installation, inspect to make sure all surfaces have adhered. Clean any dirt or grease with a soft cloth or chamois and alcohol.

  • Be patient, applying a vinyl dash kit can be difficult. Take the time necessary to install each piece carefully, if the piece is removed and then reapplied delamination may occur. It is better to trim the kit than it is to remove it and reapply it.
  • Be sure to have properly cleaned your dash. This is the number one reason for delamination. If aftermarket dash polishes are used, they must be thoroughly removed prior to application.

Dash Kit Installation, Polishing Your Trim Kit


Dash Kit Preparation Guidelines

Please take a moment to read and understand the installation process of your dash kit. If any process is unclear please feel free to contact us.

  1. Ideal application temperature range is 70º to 80º F (21º to 27º C).
  2. Application during periods of high relative humidity is not recommended.
  3. Surfaces must be clean and dry prior to application.
  4. Check the part number and wood type to ensure you have the proper kit.
  5. Check that your kit is complete by using the layout sheet included in the package for reference.