C-3 dash pad removal

[James G.]

I replaced my hood release cable over the weekendand I had to tighten the cable bracket so I tried to remove the dash pad. I was able to get it loose but I could not get it to pull off. I followed the service manual, loosen the steering column, remove screws, etc. Is there a trick to this?

[Tom L.]

Re: C-3 dash pad removal

Did you release the speedometer and tach cables?

[Jack H.]

Re: C-3 dash pad removal

If you're talking about the lower dash pad (main instrument cluster), you need to re-read the Chassis Service Manual. You'll find a subtle cautionary note regarding the main wiring harness...

It routes under a clip between the speedo and tach. If you release everything else and try to PULL the instrument cluster out, the wiring harness will rub against the retaining clip. I've even seen folks go too far and actually SAW through the wiring harness not knowing they were fighting against the retaining clip!!!

[James G.]

Re: C-3 dash pad removal

Thanks for your replies. I was reading the procedure under Corvette body in the service manual. I thought it was to easy. Never gave a thought to releasing the speedo and tach cables, let alone a retainer for the harness. Pretty tough working under there, I spent a good four hours on my back trying to remove the dash and tighten the cable bracket. I was not to sure how to release the duct for the ventilation system from the dash pad, any ideas?

[Jack H.]

Re: C-3 dash pad removal

Vent tubes simply 'slip-fit' onto the vent outlet. Original cars used strips of foam with peel off backing protecting the original adhesive that held the foam to the various vent/tube components. Once the foam was in place, the parts simply slipped onto each other with the foam providing interference fit and sealing at the junction(s)...

[Alan S.]

Re: C-3 dash pad removal

Hi James,
Jack is right about the duct's slip fit to the outlet.
Did you see the wing-nut on the stud at the elbow of the duct which holds the duct to the outlet in the hinge pillar plenum? I had to loosen the wing-nut to get a little wiggle room for the duct to slide off the dash outlet.
I hate the dash. I just wrote to someone on CF that everyone should have access to a 2 year old child. They have the right size hands and arms, can lay in the foot well, and aren't strong enough (probably) to break the d**n center gauge bezel.
Regards,
Alan

[James G.]

Re: C-3 dash pad removal

Thanks again for your replies. I suspected that the vent was some type of slip fit, as far as the wing nut I will take a look for it the next time I attempt that madness. I did put the hood release cable in the old bracket which I managed to tighten somewhat. My next project is to replace the timing chain.