tips for removing backpad - especially engine lid release
 

How do I remove the engine lid release mechanism so I can remove the backpad?

Pull the knob as if opening the lid. Take a pair of vise-grips and hold the threaded end of the cable. Unscrew the knob. Release the vise-grips. Push and twist to unscrew the "escutcheon" that the cable goes through, or try to figure out another way to unscrew it.

Hmm, now I forget--do you really need to remove the "escutcheon"?

--DD

To remove the release knob pull it out as far as you can.... I have a small needle nose vice grip that I use to hold the cable .... then screw the knob off.

The backpad has several screws that need to be removed. Thier are tabs that interlock into the firewall.... push the top of the pad down and pull out..... while pushing down..... Be carful because the metal tabs on the backpad are only riveted onto the cardboard back. This job is easier with both seats removed.

Yes. It screws onto the firewall, and the flange on it is bigger than the hole in the backpad, so it's gotta come off.

For the eschtchon, I use a pair in needle nose pliers inserted into the holes on the face of it and twist. You only need about two turns with the pliers and then it will come off by hand.