I think it could be heated like you say Carl, but it would have to be pulled outward in some manner while pliable. Don't think it would expand out on it's own.

But I'll try local heat. Thanks.

 

Try a low wattage light bulb under it with an extra heavy weight on top or use your press to direct the force.

Any way to make a small access from the backside and give it a small shot of expanding foam. I use that stuff for all kinds of things. I have a gun where you can just use a shot without using a whole can.

Surprisingly, the dash is actually still pretty pliable. I know when the car is done I'll be trying to keep it out of the sun as best as possible. I actually got a quote from Just Dashes Todd. I think it was 900 USD. Nope.

I like the idea of try to get something in behind it, but it would be tough as the underside is vinyl as well.

How about heating the local area, then trying to gently tease it out with a small tube attached to a vacuum? Or attach some strong tape along the centerline of the dimple with a couple of strings up the center. Warm it and gradually pull it up. Remove tape.

Canadian Poncho wrote:

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When I worked at the dealerships in Ontario there was a company called Fibrenew that did all kinds of vinyl and upholstery repairs. I suspect they are still in business. Might be worth contacting them.

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I've used Fibernew here in Calgary to repair a cracked dash.  They inject something into the foam to make it more firm, so they can work on the cracks of the plastic cover.    I don't think they'd be able to do much with the indentation. 

Good video George, that seemed to work.

Good stuff!

It worked! Thanks to all!

I think the trick is to just heat the area just until it's still bearable to the touch. Any hotter and it might begin to smooth the grain. The feel will be your indicator.

So gradually warm it, then smooth across it with your fingers. A couple of squeezes along the front edge, and with poking down on the heated vinyl along both sides of the dent (pulls the dimple tighter), and it's all but gone but for a little scuff or scratch. The ice afterwards might not even be necessary, but doesn't hurt.

There were also a few more outward protruding bumps on the underside that pulled in easily with the heat.

 

Now we work on finding some appropriate colour die to paint it with.

Cheers, Mark

Good job.