I have an 81 Z28 that I am trying to remove the dash bezel to get to the back of the gauge cluster to change speedo cable. I have removed all the allen screws, the cigarette lighter wiring, and wiring for the dummy lights that are attached to the bezel. It is loose all the way across until you get to the head light and wiper switch. I also removed the nut on the headlight switch so that is loose. It acts like the wiper switch is holding it. Any help would be appreciated.
Is the switch headlight completely free from the cluster? If not that may be what is preventing the cluster from being removed. If the headlight knob and stem are still attached to the switch you can remove it by pulling the knob out all the way while reaching to the backside of the cluster and depressing a spring loaded button that should release the stem. If its actually the wiper switch that is the problem then removing the headlight switch components should give you a little more access to the wiper switch. BTW- There are "How To" videos available on You Tube and the Fbody Warehouse website that will give you more info on cluster removal.
The wiring harness plug tends to hang up on the edge of the dash pad. It's one of those things where a little bit of interference upon assembly was accepted even though disassembly is much more difficult. You will need to remove the clock knob too. (Small screw in middle of the knob.) Pull the right side away from the dash until you can shift the whole thing over to the point of contact with the steering column. Support it with your right hand. Now... Grab the area between the two small gauges with your left hand and pull the bezel towards you and wiggle the harness plug past the edge of the dash. Good Luck!
Can you tell me the size and length of the fasteners that hold that dash bezel in place? A pic would be appreciated if possible.
I'm on a screw hunt too, need the four screws that hold the gauge cluster in the dash... cant find any cars at the u pull it anymore
I can send you the four screws that hold the gauge cluster into place. I am in the Pittsburgh area as well. Send me a PM with your address. Dave
The speedo cable itself can be a pain and prevent instrument panel from moving out. Have you unscrew the put on Earth cable from the back?
JM2cW...why are you pulling the cluster to change the speedo cable? The speedo cable unplugs from the back 9 bitch to get at then you can snake the cable out and install the new one. You will not get the cluster moved out enough to unhook the cable as long as the cable is attached to the speedo. Hope that helps.