So to complete this for those who might search for information in the future, the ribbon connector is back in. It is difficult to do (unless you have tiny hands). I was just barely able to get my pinky in the cassette door to guide the ribbon into the connector at the same time you're trying to attach the faceplate. It took several tries. Bottom line: don't remove the faceplate
The radio is back in the car and working. I also restored the cassette door that was roached out from age.
