Removing Dash Panels

[Lynden-Jeff]

Hi,

I need to remove my main dash panel that goes around the gauge panel and stereo as im putting some switches directly in to the dash beside the 4 X 4 knob. Does anyone know the best way to remove this? Also does anyone know the best route to run wires from the back of the cab to the dash? Its an super cab.

Thanks!
Jeff

 

[Tbar]

On my 1999 this is how its done...............don't know about your year model.

Remove headlight switch assembly(ya gotta know the combination). Remove 4X selector knob. Remove radio(special ford radio removal tool), Unscrew two screws right above radio. Pull dash loose. Disconnect wire harness and out it comes.





Tbar

 

[architect-builder]

What kind of switches are you installing?

FWIW, I installed these three 30A LED switches just by removing the 4X4 switch, drilling the three holes, and then running the wiring to them is a sinch (sp).

View attachment 6229

Best way from back of cab to front is in the sill tray underneath the doors, IMO. I have everything from my strobe supply cables, power cables, relay cables, etc.. running there. There is plenty of room.

Hope it helps.

Barrett

 

[Lynden-Jeff]

Hey,

That is exactly what I want to do, how did you remove the 4 x 4 switch? Also how do I access the sill, just pop off the plastic peices or do I get to it from underneeth?

Cheers
Jeff

 

[architect-builder]

The sill just pops up. place a flat screwdriver under the front or back and carefull lift up, then you can remove it the rest of the way, it just has clips.

The 4X4 switch has two tabs, (one on each side), that hold it to the dash, depending on the size of your hands, you can reach from the bottom so to speak, (through the access panel under the steering wheel, or take out the stereo and reach from that side to release one of the tabs. If I can remember tonight, I'll try to take a pic of it removed to give you an idea.

Then I made a template with the spacing for the switches, drilled the holes with a step drill, and walla.

Hope it helps.

Barrett

 

[Lynden-Jeff]

Thanks man, Going to give it a try soon.

Cheers
Jeff

 

[architect-builder]

Glad I could help. Hope the install goes well.

Barrett

 

[Lynden-Jeff]

Hey,

Got the switches put in. They look pretty good although a tiny bit off, hard to do perfectly. My next question is the headliner. How do I remove those little plastic plugs? I thought they just come out but with a little muscle they dont seem to want to pop out.

Thanks
Jeff

 

[architect-builder]

What are you removing the headliner for? It's pretty easy to "fish" wiring around and through it with an electricians fish tape. As far as the plugs, needle nose plyers with the curved ends are the easiest way I have found.

Tool

allows you to get under the buttons and "rocker" them out so to speak.

Or even a 4" long flat bar.



Barrett

 

[bushpilot]

to remove the buttons you should use a tool like this -->

DOOR PANEL REMOVAL TOOL (DELUXE) :: REMOVAL TOOLS :: Installation Accessories (TOOLS) :: AUTOTOYS