How To Restore a Corvette C3 Center Console

While exterior upgrades may receive all the compliments, restoring a car's interior is generally the most gratifying upgrade for Corvette owners. After all, where do you spend most of the time?

With a broken faceplate and... 

   

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With a broken faceplate and soiled covering, this '72 Corvette was in dire need of a new console.

With our '72 Corvette big-block, the interior was intact and in decent shape, but the console, carpeting, and other interior components, were unsightly-especially the gauges in the console.

In addition to a basic restoration of the interior, we decided to upgrade the console using a retrofit stereo kit from Mid America Motorworks (MAM). The bolt-in system incorporates a 230-watt stereo that fits in the exact same place as the original radio. It's already attached to the console when it arrives, allowing you to toss the factory amplifier and other unnecessary wiring, making the installation faster.

Begin by removing the screws...        read full caption Begin by removing the screws holding the gauge faceplate and console panel in place.

Detach the faceplate from...        read full caption Detach the faceplate from the gauge panel. Gauges with faded features can be restored through Mid America Motorworks' special service division.

The new console (left) requires...        read full caption The new console (left) requires illumination bulbs and lighter brackets. Compare the two panels and use a service manual to ensure it is assembled properly.

Although we already had everything apart, total teardown is not required. This upgrade can be done as a stand-alone changeover.

When dismantling the interior, make certain to collect all interior clips and screws for replacement. MAM offers kits to replace missing screws-a common problem with cars of this vintage, especially if it's been taken apart in the past.

The lighter socket may be...        read full caption The lighter socket may be dirty; clean all surfaces and tighten all connections.	The new faceplate can be ordered...        read full caption The new faceplate can be ordered for either the stock radio or an upgraded sound system.	Carefully remove the radio...        read full caption Carefully remove the radio knobs to free the faceplate. The console wiring can become loose so make certain all connections are tight when reinstalling.
The new data plate sticks...        read full caption The new data plate sticks in place. Mid America Motorworks offers a host of data plates to match the engine configuration.	Once the plates and gauge...        read full caption Once the plates and gauge cluster are out, the console itself is easy to install. Carefully mount the console in place. Reinserting the screws can be a challenge. With an awl, locate the holes and screw the console in place.	The finished shifter plate...        read full caption The finished shifter plate system is assembled and ready to go.
The new console took about...        read full caption The new console took about three hours to complete and makes a major difference in the final appearance of the interior.

A GM chassis service manual is worth its weight in gold and should be reviewed before taking on this project. It notes screws you may not have noticed when reviewing the project. Diagrams and notes about screw location are also helpful.

Take your time with replacement console parts. These cars vary and require custom fitting so the mounting screw holes have not been drilled. Make certain the console is properly positioned, then make the holes. Placement of the screw mount holes must be accurate for everything to fit.