Dashboard Removal?

[Lukas]

Hi all,

Is it possible to remove the dashboard without removing the windscreen? I have the dash loose, but it seems to be physically too large to fit past the A-pillars and then out one of the front doors.

The dash is not a keeper, so an option is to cut it up (to get at the wood, vents, etc), but I'd rather not - seems cruel.

Ta

Lukas

 

[Styria]

Hi Lukas, I think that's an easy one. Initially, just make sure that you have removed the two 8mm lock nuts and the large washers from the rear corners of the dashboard. It sometimes pays to bend down the body brackets that the dash is secured to in those two locations.

Next, don't make the mistake of trying to lift the dash upwards and out. Just make sure that the dashboard studs are clear of those two body brackets I have already referred to. Once the back of the dash (towards screen) is clear, just grab the passenger side of the dash and pull it straight back towards you - don't try and lift it as the screen aperture narrows as you go up. It does pay to insert a flat piece of plastic or some thin flat steel between the 'A' pillar and the corner of the dash. Spray a bit of Inox or WD40 and just pull HARD. That'll get you there. Regards Styria

 

[BIGBENZ]

I agree with styria,i too followed a similar procedure ,it took me bout an hour and a bit..tho take your time!!!!
cheerz! BIGBENZ

 

[Lukas]

Thanks all - that worked. The steering column is a pain. I've tried to mark all the attachment points in the pic below. All accessed via under the dash or through the glovebox and instrument panel holes.

Tip - disconnect the little leve from the centre A/C vent to the stuff behind it, otherwise it snaps off when you pull the dash out (middle arrow).

Another tip: the dash lining can tear on the steering column near where the indicator stalk is (RHS arrow).

 

[Styria]

Hi Lukas, could you take close up photos of the vacuum lines INSIDE the cabin in the area of entry from the engine compartment and the way they are distributed along the bottom of the windscreen in both directions. I am having some central locking issues, even with Gleaming Beauty, yet I have never taken much note of the layout of these lines previously. Regards Styria