Hello all, I'm in process of writing this up now, so ignore if not complete....I'll edit this as I go.
This is a step by step instruction to go with my other article, heater core removal/replacement found here:
http://vb.foureyedpride.com/showthread.php?t=20497
I am writing this up simply because Many have to remove or lower their dash, and often wind up taking out every screw and nut, including all the ones that don't need to come off. I know I did, that's for sure. This is an extremely easy process, so don't be intimidated.
1. the first step is to remove the inst cluster cover. I have circled the areas where the philips screw will need to be removed. After these screws are out, simply pull the cover towards you, and lift up and it'll come straight out.
2. The next step is to remove the dash pad. This shot is from the bottom. Remove the philips screws i've circles, also the far left one not pictured. These can be accessed after the inst cluster cover is removed
3. Remove the 4 philips screws shown and GENTLY pull the dash pad off
here I have circled on the corners to remove the philips screws to release the inst cluster..NOTE removal of inst cluster may not be necessary if you are just swinging the dash out of the way. You will likely have to pop off the speedo cable though. Also, for re-install, pop the hood and take out the bolt that fastens the speed cable to the strut tower near the headers. this will allow the cable to come out of the dash more and install easier.
Here is a nice shot of the speedo cable. To release the inst cluster, you must pull it forward towards you as far as it will go. Reach behind and feel the tab on the speedo cable (I have it circled below). Pushing on this tab will allow you to release and pull the speedo cable out. After that, the inst cluster will pull out a little more where it will show you the two main harnesses you must remove next. Pull out on both tabs and the cable will pull out. Don't be a retard like me and break the clips such as I've done.
FYI...Now is a great time to check and replace any burnt out bulbs.
remove the heater switches. (again, this may or may not be necessary...you'll have to determine if you have enough slack when the dash lowers...if you don't, this should free some slack up) Remove the 4 screws that hold on the heater switches (carefully, as the corners break easily!!) You'll have to remove a couple of connectors and the cable behind it, which is all pictured below
From here, I'd probably start on the top dash screws. Use a screwdriver such as pictured below, otherwise you'll be slamming the windshield with the screwdriver...
2 screws on the right side near the speaker..>NOTE: no need to remove any screws other than what I have circled. These other screws do other things not pertinent to removing the dash.
one in the middle
and two more on the left.....that's it as far as the bolts for the top of the dash
NOTE: there are two screws on the very sides of the dash that mate up to the door..below is a lousy picture of these. These do NOT need to be removed!!
Next, I'd probably start with the main mounting points....There are two bolts, one on either side on the piller just above the kick panel....Here is where the first goes on the pass side...remove this bolt
and here is the other one that must be removed:
another on the very bottom right under the glove box
No picture of this anymore, but it's on the bottom of the dash facing the carpet.
and finally the last one...This one can only be accessed after the steering column has been dropped...this view is looking at it from the backside of the dash
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