Can you guys relate any information/recommendations/warnings about aftermarket wood dash kits?

I'm thinking of refreshing my wifes '96 855 by installing one of these kits, but I am apprehensive. I assume, once you install one of these kits, you've ruined the original dash underneath, so when you do this install, you've got to do it right, the first time.

I see some inexpensive buys on eBay and some more expensive purchases directly from manufacturers/dealers, so I am suspecting that there is a wide range in quality amongst these kits.

Do some makers use better adhesive than others?
Do some use better wood than others?

I live in the Chicago area, with annual hot and cold cycling. Anyone have any experience with failures (adhesive) in colder areas?

Thanks.

Ken,

Hi my name is Mark, I happen to own two 850's, one for the wife and one of my own, and as it just so happens, I also run one of these dash kit companies here in Japan. Anything you need to know about a particular company and their product quality etc. just drop me a line and I'd be happy to answer all the questions you have. ozsamurai@hotmail.com

you can check my kit out at:

http://members.lycos.co.uk/ozsamurai/Volvo/VolvoGallery.htm

I love the Brushed Aluminum as it totally lift the interior of the car... I don't know why everyone goes for the dark woods...

Cheers

Mark
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Volvo Born and Bred!

That looks great - you sure have done a lot of work - but the streering wheel is on the wrong side!

Hmmmm.... Well lots of love I suppose, money follows of course....as to the handle being on the wrong side that's the same thing I feel everytime I see one in the States, how do you guys drive that way! lol...
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Volvo Born and Bred!

I installed a gloss black kit into my 850 T5, it looks great and stuck really well. just clean off any polish you may have on the dash first. (cleaner usually supplied with the kit)

If you dont align it spot on first time, you can peel it back and realign it as long as you dont leave it too long.

Hairdryer worked great once on to secure the adhesive all over.

Buy one, they make a big difference.

As an option, you may want to check out the polished metal kits.
Personally, I think they look a lot better than the wood, are more durable for cleaning purposes and general wear & tear.
You can source them thru ebay, and they're about the same price as the "woody kits."
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'94 850 154000kms '86 760GLE 272000kms

I had a dealer installed wood dash kit from Superior Products put on my '95 850 when purchased in '95. I live in Cleveland, OH and 10 years later, it still looks great!