Installing a Glove Box in a Classic Chevrolet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Restoring a classic Chevrolet is a labor of love, and one of the finishing touches to the interior restoration is the installation of the glove box. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring that your vintage Chevy's glove box is installed with needed care and precision to preserve the legacy and further enjoy the ride of your classic Chev. This process is straightforward and relatively simple. Glove boxes are typically easier to install from behind the dash. 

There are several reasons why someone might want to install a new glove box in their vintage Chevrolet:

1. Restoration: For classic car enthusiasts, restoring a vehicle to its original condition is a passion project. A new glove box can replace a worn or damaged one, bringing the car closer to its factory state.
2. Functionality: The glove box is a practical feature for storing important items like the vehicle registration, insurance papers, and maps. A new glove box ensures these items are kept safely and are easily accessible.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: A new glove box can enhance the interior appearance of the car, especially if the rest of the interior has been maintained or restored.
4. Value: Maintaining or restoring a classic car, including all its components like the glove box, can increase its value, both monetarily and sentimentally to its owner.
5. Preservation: Replacing a deteriorating glove box with a new one can help preserve the overall condition of the classic car, preventing further wear and tear.
6. Customization: Some owners may want to customize their glove box for modern conveniences, such as adding a custom liner or a lock for added security.

In essence, whether it's for restoration, functionality, aesthetic, value, preservation, or customization, installing a new glove box is part of the joy and responsibility of owning a piece of automotive history.

Materials Needed:

• Replacement glove box insert
• Screwdriver set
• Pliers
• Lubricant (if necessary)
• Cleaning supplies (for rust and debris removal)

Step 1: Preparation Begin by preparing your workspace. Ensure that the area around the glove box is clean and free of any items that could obstruct the installation process. Gather all the necessary tools and materials before you start.

Step 2: Removal of the Old Glove Box If there is an existing glove box, carefully unscrew and remove it. Use this opportunity to clean the cavity, removing any rust, dirt, or debris. This will provide a clean surface for the new glove box insert.

Step 3: Fitting the New Glove Box Insert Take the new glove box insert and carefully slide it into the opening. It may require some gentle bending or manipulation to fit properly. Be patient and avoid forcing the insert, as this could damage it or the dashboard.

Step 4: Securing the Insert Once the insert is in place, secure it with screws. Do not overtighten, as this could strip the screw holes or crack the insert. Ensure that the insert is snug and does not rattle.

Step 5: Reattaching the Glove Box Door If you removed the glove box door, now is the time to reattach it. Align the hinges and check that the door opens and closes without any issues. Apply lubricant to the hinges if necessary.

Step 6: Final Checks Conduct a final inspection to make sure everything is secure and functioning correctly. Open and close the glove box several times to ensure smooth operation.

Conclusion: Installing a glove box in a 1937-1954 Chev may feel daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be a simple process. Remember to take your time and handle all parts with care to maintain the integrity of your classic car. Once installed, your glove box will not only add to the aesthetic appeal of your Chevrolet but also provide functional storage space. Enthusiasts often share their experiences and advice, which can be invaluable during your restoration journey. 

We here at Chevs of the 40s sell various glove boxes and supplies to meet your classic needs for your vintage models.