PART TWO: FORD F-350 INTERIOR CLEANUP

BY JACOB WHITE

After 23 years and 200k+ miles, no matter how good the truck, there are bound to be things that break, fail, or just plain wear out. For this truck, even though the previous owner took great care of it, the dash bezel had some broken clips, a missing trim piece, and it was rattling. The square hole needed some attention as well.

A total replacement for the instrument cluster bezel from Complete Performance was the easiest way to fix the broken dash vents, rattling trim, and unwanted hole. This factory Ford part is a welcome find for a vehicle over 20 years old.

Removing the factory dash bezel didn’t take long. There were just a couple small screws and a few clips, some of which were already broken or missing. As advanced as today’s diesels are, it’s nice to get back into these older vehicles because they are so much simpler. Basic light bulbs light up the dash and can be replaced by disconnecting just a couple of wiring connectors.

Another common failure on these old trucks is the plastic HVAC vents on the dash. After who knows how many thousands of adjustments, the plastic had broken and directing air where you wanted was just out of the question.

Last month, we introduced an all-new project build— Project OBSessed. This 1996 7.3L Power Stroke F350 has 224,000 miles, had one owner, and has seen its fair share of tough miles. However, given its age, it’s in great overall condition. After spending its life in Utah, where snowy salt-covered roads are the norm four months of the year, it’s still solid and rust free.

For many, these 1994-1997 Ford trucks hold a special place in their heart. Maybe you had one 15 years ago, or your dad had one, or your neighbor had one. Most folks who have been around diesel pickups have a story about a 7.3L Power Stroke, and it’s usually a good one. Like many of you, I grew up in a home that had an OBS Ford parked in the garage. I drove one similar to this truck my senior year of high school, and I later owned two other 7.3 Power Strokes that fostered my love for the diesel industry.