Opening the gauge cluster lense

[Brixius]

Hey guys, I have another question:

I am trying to replace the temperature gauge needle in my '86 Fiero SE and I can't seem to get the gauge cluster lense off. I am trying hard not to break anything so I am asking for some help. I have all the screws off and there just seems to be some tabs on the upper portion of the lense keeping the lense on (I can lift the bottom part off). Do I need to take any other part of the dash out, or is there a way to get the lense off by fooling with the tabs?

Thanks
Mike

[ctesla]

Mike,

don't have a Fiero sitting in front of me, but as I recall mostly, the T-15 torx is your friend here.
after pulling the screws out off the top dust cover/panel by the windshield (three I think), there is a couple underneath the steering wheel cover, and you'll need to pull the headlight and dimmer switch cover as well (I think there is a clip or another screw hidden behind it).
there should be like two large screws at the top, or four screws through the front of the cluster assembly, and naturally a couple of quick disconnect wiring harness clips in back, and you will be able to remove the entire cluster to put on a work bench or kitchen table, as it will be easier to glue/solder a new gauge needle on OUT of the vehicle.
that entire cluster housing will come loose and pull away from the dash to assist in disconnecting the electric connectors; it isn't always necessary, but a couple more screws, and a loose dash panel is sometimes easier than fighting and jockeying for an extra hour.
while its out, you might spend $6-7. US Dollars and replace all the little lights in there, because even if they aren't bad, it would be a shame, if after everything goes back together, in three months, a couple of bulbs burn out in your display. if you don't want to swap them all out, maybe at least more common ones that stay lit, like back illumination when dark, or the little shift arrow (if it's manual) and the brake light, if using the e-brake regularly.

hope this helps,
chris
nrt racing

[Brixius]

Excellent, that's exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you for taking the time to reply!!

[ctesla]

Originally Posted by Brixius

Excellent, that's exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you for taking the time to reply!!

no prob.
glad to assist.
if you get stuck:
713.933.5773 (7A-10P central)
chris
nrt racing

[ctesla]

oh yea,
while it's out, might take some watered down windex
and clean the cobwebs and dust out of everything, before closing it up.
and while that entire dash panel is loose, wipe it out/down, or shop vac it, then a little armor all or something, so it is clean looking thru the windshield.

hope this helps,
chris