I would like to remove my dashboard so that holes can be cut into it and my Defi gauges can be installed. According to the Helm's manual the steering column is supposed to be removed as one of the steps. Is that really necessary?

 

Yes, the column runs through the dash. It needs to be removed to get the dash out in 1 piece.

 

I've done everything necessary to remove the steering column with the exception of disconnecting the ignition switch connectors. There appears to be three of them. I haven't figured out how to disconnect them yet. Space is pretty darn cramped down there.

Any advice?

 

Pull the seats out for more room.

Pull the bolts that hold the column to the dash brace and let the column drop to unplug the connectors.

 

I've pulled the driver's seat and removed all the bolts that hold the column in place. The column can't really drop down because it is still going through the dash. Also, these connectors are up and under the dashboard and dropping the column won't allow any more access to them. I could disconnect the wiring from the top of the steering column itself, but I am not sure if that could potential damage the overall ignition system.

Please bare with me hear and I am still in the learning process.

 

Here are some pics:








I think the last couple of pics show the three connectors which need to be disconnected.

P.S. I am not happy with the way some of the wiring looks (not clean/zipped tied together). Once I have everything removed, I am going to try and clean it up some.

 

Pics would help. What is easy for me to access and unplug can be quite difficult for others. I've been working on this stuff for too long

 

Pics provided.

 

The yellow SRS connectors usually have a black release sleeve which has to be pulled back before they disconnect. Directions are in the SRS section of the SM.

The white connectors in the pic have a release tab on the back side of the male connector which has to be depressed to get them apart. Use a small screwdriver to depress and wiggle them apart.

 

Yeah, this project is SUCH a pain.