Removing gauge cluster

[Fern]

Can the gauge cluster be removed with the dash still in the car?
Im planing on installing a dakota digital dash in and really didn't want to remove the dash.

[Chryco Psycho]

Yes it can , you need to lower the column & removing the steering wheel helps a lot also .

[Katfish]

I seem to remember struggling to get the bezel and switch panel out.
Removed all the lower trim, removed the dash nuts under the light panel, to be able to push the dash up enough to get things out.
So just the attaching points around the cluster to give some movement in that area, without removing entire pad.

[pschlosser]

I've removed the cluster a number of times by just dropping the steering column, and I didn't need to remove the steering wheel from the column, or remove the column from the vehicle.  My primary goal was to avoid scratching the cluster parts and/or crush can on the column.

If you need to do repairs on the existing wiring harness, I vote pull the dash.  It's extra work removing the dash, but THEN, everything has good access, and you can get things assembled near perfect on the bench.

It might be my age talking, but with the dash still installed, when I'm on my back looking up under, or reaching into the dash cutting my hands on the sheet metal, and/or when I get frustrated, I don't do nearly as nice a job as I would taking my time at the bench, listening to jazz with a gentle fan blowing my way.  So if your swap includes some wiring harness work, it's hard to say which is better.

If ALL your doing is swapping the cluster, and little more, then I would vote leave the dash in.

[blown motor]

I put masking tape on the sides of the switch bezel and gauge bezel where they meet to prevent scratching the wood grain. The dash light bar has to be removed and the switch bezel should come out first. No need to remove the lower trim pieces.

[Racer57]

Take the drivers seat out !  You will have a lot more room to get to the wiring. Take LOTS of pictures of the wires. Its pretty straightforward, but pictures will help when reinstalling. When reinstalling, put tape along edge of switch panel and dash. Otherwise you will scratch them.

[MoparLeo]

 

I completely agree, removing the seat when doing any dash or under dash work gives you tons of room to work in, is much more comfortable. Also only requires the removal of 4 nuts from under the car.
Lower the steering column and mask off or cover with cloth around the areas that you will be working in to avoid scratches.
One more thing, always disconnect the battery when you are working around wiring..
You do not want to short any connections when removing the harness.

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