Dash grab handle repair/dash assist handle

[tiggershark]

Pulled the dash out for recovering, one side of the grab handle was loose for years. Thought it just needed to be tightened. Not so much. The plastic on the inside is broken.  I would like ideas on a good repair, not just gluing it back together. thanks

[roadking77]

Im not sure that could be fixed, at least all that easily. How readily available are they? I have never checked so Im not sure. If not new should be able to find one floating around someplace.

[Wallington]

Maybe a section of dash cut or inner metal plate to reinforce the break. My car originally had it but recovered dash never had handle replaced. I like the originality of having it, but not the chance it would be used to possible damage!

[Warren Seale]

That handle is a joke.  In my opinion it is only for show.  There is no possibility that it can be useful as intended.  Mine was busted when the car was only a couple of years old.  I used an epoxy that is meant for use with plastic then clamped the handle with a screw and washers to the nub that was remaining on the dash before the epoxy cured.  If a there is a passenger in the car they need to be told DO NOT TOUCH!

[tiggershark]

You're right, it isnt for using. It's just for lookin at. Thinking a small metal plate epoxied in would hold it. But the dash is getting re-covered and option B is to eliminate it.

[roadking77]

Is it broke where it mounts through the dash? I was under the impression the handle itself was broke and just the rubber covering was holding it together. If its where it mounts you should be able to 'graft' a piece of alum. or similar to make something work.
Yes, def just a decoration.

[tiggershark]

The handle itself and the 2 mounting "plates" are fine. The plastic on the inside of the dash let loose. Looking at the design, I wonder how it lasted this long. I have some aluminum and that might be the way to go. I used some playdoh and made a mold of it so I can fabricate something darn close to it. Its just one more thing in the dash that was a potential rattle and while the dash is sent to Texas, I'll be going over everything to fix squeaks and rattles. Down to one of the last interior up dates. Seats, carpet, headliner, console, speaker shelf, sound deadening, all complete. Door panels this week and a steering wheel and its done. 

[MNBob]

Mine broke when the car was 2 years from new.  Fortunately, at the time, I was able to go to the dealer and get one.  They are decorative only.

[roadking77]

About like the door pull handles on 79 and up. My cousin bought a trans am new in '81 and when ever we rode in it were forbidden to use the handles to pull the door shut. Had to put the window down, pull by the top of the door then the window went back up.

[Wallington]

Yes, another design flaw with a massive heavy door and flimsy handle too far forward. The armrest should have had a scallop into them to be able to grip. Those Dorman/Help brand metal armrest 'repair' sleeves actually beef up a brand new armrest too, they don't need to be damaged to use.

A distant photo of a 78-81 NOS dash rear, but shows slots where grab handle ends pass through and then screw sideways into U-nut clips on plastic tabs. This one is uncut and doesn't appear to have the retainers either. I purchased a 'dash cut' for my original radio install and it was also uncut for grab handle but had the retainers anyway for anyone adding the handle down the track or during production perhaps.

NOS 78_81 Firebird dash by Aus78Formula, on Flickr