Dash Deformation - Center Region

Has anyone dealt with this level of dash deformation in the center region? I suspect it somewhat driven from removing the center bezel a few times... but it's really looking weak at the corners.




Since this is part of the entire dash (door-to-door), I figure I can't just replace this area. I expect the stressed corners (you can see the lighter color in the plastic showing the stress points) will break over time since I still need to test fit a new center bezel for my new switch panel and radio....

I'm thinking to maybe 3D print a replacement if/when it breaks. Still TBD on how I would attach it.

It's not vertically load bearing - so I'd just need to keep the horizonal strength. any sealing of the vents is long since gone anyway — plus, the vent air would follow the path of least resistance into the cab, not back into the dash.

macleanflood said:

Let me guess...you replaced the heater core with something extra spicy?

I've had my center bezel out bunches of times and no deformation.

-Mac

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I wish. OEM heater after 156k miles.

I think this was semi caused by my younger self re-installed the center bezel by starting at the bottom and forcing the the dash center.

dbbd1 said:

Heat gun.

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Been a thought. But I'm more worried of the stress points that have shown themselves in the corners and a crack forming on the driver side:



I appreciate the idea of the heat gun - haven't tried it but a good idea. But I'm not sure that will fix the total structural damage, just get the parts back above the HVAC tubs...