Im about to replace the 3 piece trim strips on the dash. It seems like a very simple snap in and pop out piece (from looking at the replacement parts).

I would assume just a small flat head screwdriver covered with some type of soft cloth would do the trick? Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

From what I recall, there are tiny screws up under there. Someone did this recently by pulling the side vents off first, and working in from there. Not easy. But do-able.

 

I heard the whole dash needs to com off to do it properly - do a search as someone recently posted a link on this...

 

Here is a pic of a dashboard with the strips removed. Each of those holes has a screw tying the strip to the dash from the back of the dashboard. It has been suggested in previous threads that the vent's on each end be removed so that you can use some leverage to pry the strips by pulling them out with the heads passing thru the holes...not easy, I'm told. And there is the danger of slipping and damaging other parts of the dash. People have done this (not me), but FWIW, it's not a slam dunk. If you do the job let us know how you make out.

 

KevinM put CF in his Cab. Here are his detailed instructions. If the link doesn't work, go to RennTech.org and check under DIY.

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=392

 

On any other year than the 01 you can remove the side vents, radio, glove box and remove the torx screws. If you would rather not deal with that then or have an 01 you can take cut off wheel like on an air tool, or Dremmel and remove it. Let me caution you here, you will want to have a steady hand and tape off the upper and lower sections of leather with masking tape and double layer it. Then take the cut off wheel and cut through the center of the strip until you reach the screws and they fall out. You can then simply pull the trim out. Use the new piece to determine where the screws are and buzz these areas only. This works well, but if you screw up you screw up big with damaged leather. The new piece will simply push in. I did this to mine after watching a friend beat his dash to death buy trying to pull these strips out. He pried, yanked and ultimately ripped the leather on the upper section. I fixed the dash, but it is not easy nor for the DIYers. The strips are not that bad if you have either tool.

 

Stephen,

So if I understand correctly, on my 02 I can remove the parts mentioned and then I will have access to actually remove the screws normaly? This is the only carbon I have not done that I wish to. It was not worth the trouble to me to do it Kevin M's way. If I understand you correctly, it does not sound to difficult.


Thanks

 

Gary,

Im also thinking about using the same method...just need to go out and buy a dremel tool with cut off wheel. My only concern is with the long passenger piece. If you look at the replacement part, it appears to be a tad longer b/c the left side of the trim is tucked under the center console.

Stephen,

assuming I use your method, will there be enough clearance to get the trim underneath the center console?

 

Gary,
Correct you can do it that way. It takes a very small torx and an extension and you on your back to unscrew them all. Time consuming mostly.

BCS,
You will need to loosen up the center console to get the strips out of the way as well as loosen up the side vents. They do roll under the vents and can be pulled out, but why mess with it and struggles when you can loosen it up a tad and walk the strips out. Much easier.

 

Bill,

I was looking at the method where you don't need the dremel. If I need to use a dremel I will pass even though I already have the tool.