Fuse box, dash restoration questions

[David Bongo <dbongo@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I'd like help with two current projects I have on my postal Scout.

First, the fuse box.  The truck currently has an old fuse box in there,
with the clear cylindical type fuses.  Is there an easy way to convert
that to the newer style used in "modern" vehicles?  i.e. The
rectangular, multi-colored push-in type fuses?  This isn't a "must-do"
job, but something that I would like to do.

Secondly, the dash pad.  I've been driving (and delivering) without it
for 3 weeks.  There's a reason for that.  Apart from being dirty (I
figure a tough-task cleaner/degreaser like "Superclean" can take care of
that), the vinyl is cracked and peeling in some areas.  Which is bad
enough, but in some places, it's not just the vinyl that's cracked.  The
crack is a good 1/2 inch deep.  And then there's a half-dollar sized
chunk torn out of the top at one place.  The problem is, I can't just
chuck it and put in one from another Scout.  The RHD dash is different,
so I've got to try and restore the one I have.  Here's my plan, and I
welcome any comments/suggestions.  Or an alternative if I'm way off
base.

After cleaning it, I'm figuring on using a 2-part epoxy to fill in the
cracks and, hopefully, help bind it together.  I'm not sure what type of
filler to use on the missing chunk.  It'll take a LOT of epoxy there,
and it might not even be the right stuff for such a large area.  The
final step would be to put some sort of new covering on it.  I was
thinking vinyl or outdoor carpeting.  Upholstery isn't my thing, but
I'll give it a shot.  I prefer the "fake leather" feel of vinyl, but I'm
not too picky.

The only other thing I can think of doing would be coating the dash,
after filling the holes in, with fiberglass or something to give a
better surface for the top material to bond to.  (For those of you who
watch THE NEW YANKEE WORKSHOP I'm thinking something like Norm did when
he built a boat.)

Plan B is to try and make something out of wood.  Give me Norm Abram's
workshop, and I'll think about doing it right.  With what I have, it
would be a hack job, and probably not worth considering.

Everyone's input is appreciated.  Thanks,

Dave