Need help removing basil (sp?) to change radio

Hi all..I'm new here.....bet you couldn't tell. Have to change the radio in my mils '02 Venture with On Star...got the replacement but can't get the basil {sp?} off to do the job...I must be missing a clip or something down by the ashtray....please help before I break something. I can't afford $600 to have this done. Thanks in advance.

Kathy Mc:banghead:

What is basil (sp?)? What's the model of your stereo? Does it have CD?

The basil is the plastic frame that goes around the stereo....we need to get the ashtray out to be able to get that frame off....it's a Delco with cd, cassette and onstar..... there must be a release somewhere that we arent finding to get the ashtray out. If you know of a special tool or procedure to get it out please let me know.

I believe all you need is a philips screwdriver. Start with the ashtray. Fully opened, there should be just two screws needed to be taken out. Once out, you should be able to see & figure out how to unscrew the plastic external moulding. It shouldn't be that hard.

He said he took out the two screws behind the face of the ashtray but he can't fit his hand in to see if there are more behind there. But the frame won't come off so far. I really appreciate your input....his mom might kill him if he breaks that frame. She is 75 and all of 5' tall and full of vinegar. LOL.

He said he took out the two screws behind the face of the ashtray but he can't fit his hand in to see if there are more behind there. But the frame won't come off so far. I really appreciate your input....his mom might kill him if he breaks that frame. She is 75 and all of 5' tall and full of vinegar. LOL.
Hi Kathy - Welcome to the forum!

Please - No violence :grinyes: !

There are TWO HIDDEN screws that are accessed from below the "trim plate", what you are calling the "basil" (I thought that was a herb - sorry, I couldn't resist). :iceslolan

Anyway, here are the instructions from the factory manual:
1) Open the ashtray or the cupholder.
2) Remove the following sets of screws:
- Two screws from the front of the trim panel. For access to the front screws, remove the ashtray or the cupholder.
- Two screws from the bottom of the trim panel. For access to the bottom screws, remove the console storage box.
3) Use a small, flat-bladed tool in order to remove the upper tabs on the IP accessory trim plate from the instrument panel.
4) Disconnect the electrical connectors, if equipped.
5) Remove the IP accessory trim plate from the instrument panel.

Those 2 screws can be a REAL PAIN to find, if you don't know where to look. I will try to find a picture or drawing of them.
I sent you a PM (Private Message) with a link to the drawing.

Take Care,

Hi all..I'm new here.....bet you couldn't tell. Have to change the radio in my mils '02 Venture with On Star...got the replacement but can't get the basil {sp?} off to do the job...I must be missing a clip or something down by the ashtray....please help before I break something. I can't afford $600 to have this done. Thanks in advance.

Kathy Mc:banghead:

I think the word you wanted is bezel.

On my 2001 WB edition, with VCP down there, there were 6 hidden screws, some philips head, some required a 6mm nut driver. After you get the ashtray out of the way, you might find two more screws in it's mounting plate, pointing up. Hardest part is standing on your head between the seats so you can look up under the bezel.

If yours has the cargo bin, probably need to remove that before you can find the other hidden ones. If I ever do that again, think I will remove the passenger seat first to allow me to lay on my back and see up and under.

Hope this helps.