98 Explorer Instrument Cluster Lights

[silverbirdflyer]

Lights have burned out or came loose in the instrument cluster. How do I remove the instrument panel without busting up all the interior molding?

[97copcar]

Ok here’s what might work, it works on my 97 Explorer. First remove the two bolts on the hood release latch and move it aside. Then remove the plastic panel below the steering column by removing the bolts. Then remove all bolts from the metal plate that has been exposed by the plastic one and remove the metal panel. Then remove the radio bezel (there are 2 bolts holding it in just above the heat controls in the horizontal portion of the bezel), remove the radio bezel. Then you can remove the three bolts in the instrument cluster bezel located at the top of the bezel, work this loose and rotate it out of the way as there will be wires still attached for other functions. Then remove the 4 bolts holding the cluster in place, gently remove the instrument cluster (you will have to apply the brake and put the car in to gear so that the gear selector is as far down as it will go and tilt the steering column as low as possible to get both out of the way to remove the instrument cluster). There are three wire harnesses in the back that must be removed as well as the gear selector indicator that is on the bottom of the instrument cluster, be very careful with the gear selector indicator as it falls apart easily and is a pain in the ass to put back together. NOTE: to remove the lights just twist the 6 black bulb holders. There are no locking devices other then tension for the bulb holders. Those are for the main gauge lights.

[silverbirdflyer]

Hi Copcar,

WOW, It sounds like it would be easier to program the Space Shuttle! LOL! Thanks for the heads up. Once I get the compression thing fixed I will tackle it when I get my truck back.
I appreciate your thoughts and advice!

Thanks,
Trent

[97copcar]

silverbirdflyer,
Anytime. I just did this with my girlfriend's son. We found it to be a pita, hopefully some of the things we found will make life easier for you. Let me know if it does not work for you, I am not sure if the 97 and 98's have the same interior. I know that my 97 camaro and a 98 are completely different. Have fun and have a safe new year.