Dash Panel R&R
 

Here is a nice-condition center dash panel which I hope will replace the unit in the car which is good, but not as perfect as this one. There is no radio in the car and I have removed the ventilation control panel. I also removed the switch knobs (defrost, etc.). However, the cigarette lighter seems to be crimped onto the dash. I am not sure this part can really be removed. If you look carefully, you can see the cigarette lighter has a black metal lip. The rubber dash panel I am trying to install goes UNDER this lip. I am guessing I will just have to pry the rubber dash panel so that it slips under this cigarette lighter lip. Can anyone confirm that I cannot remove the cigarette lighter, and that I will just have to pry this dash panel under that lip?

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1552259758.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1552259758.jpg

If I remember correctly, there is a big nut that holds it in from the back. You may have to remove the blower to get it out, unless you can go in after removing the center vent

The blower box is removed. The back of the cigarette lighter body has a rubber boot thingie, like a big thin rubber washer surrounding the base of the cigarette lighter body, against the back of the dash (in the trunk). I am not sure what is behind this rubber boot/washer thing and I am afraid of tearing it, if I pulled on it. This rubber boot/washer thingie may be part of an o-ring piece into which the cigarette lighter is mounted. I see no big nut. If it is there, it would be under this rubber thingie. the cigarette lighter is not 'loosely' installed. It does not wiggle at all. It is mounted into this dash almost as if it were welded, or crimped, in. Very solid.

Thank you for responding.

Ya pretty sure it unscrews. I recently completely disassembled my dash to send the car off for paint and I know it was no big deal getting it out. I cant say for 100% it screws out although I believe it does but I can say for 100% it should come out easily and you will not have to pry the rubber under it.

Gosh, I was not expecting this much wisdom and help. Very much appreciated.

The blower box can be refurbed with all new foam or very thin neoprene on the "valves"...

you can clean out all the crud too...

Wear eye protection when prying thos clips off & don't let them flip off into hyperspace

Have fun !!

I'm watching this with interest, as my dash will be tweaked as part of my build.