Sure thing. First, line up the boards on a flat, level surface and lay a reference piece on the floor. Use a straight edge to mark the grain direction—don’t trust the eye alone, it loves to cheat. Once you’ve got the lines, cut your panels in the same direction; even a small slip can throw off the whole look. For the old Buick dash, you’ll want a mild wood conditioner to soften the grain before you glue; that keeps the fibers from curling when the panel dries. Now for the oil and grease seals. That old Buick used a bit of boiled linseed oil in the rubber seals back in the day. Mix it with a little linseed or walnut oil and apply it to the rubber before you seal it in place; it keeps the rubber pliable and reduces cracking. For the grease plugs, a dab of petroleum jelly or a cheap silicone sealant will do the trick—just make sure it’s rated for the temperature range of the engine. Keep the tools close, and don’t let the grease hit the dashboard panels; the old wood will soak it up if you’re careless. Happy tinkering.

No worries, just keep a hand on the wood like a dog on a leash and the dash will behave. Happy revving.

Yeah, give it a breath, but don’t let it overcook. If it still goes all diva on you, a quick wipe with a bit of oil on the edges will calm it down. Keep your tools handy, that dash can be as temperamental as a 1950s Buick on a rainy night. Happy revving.