Help with instrument panel.

[peteb]

Help with instrument panel.



I just took delivery of a 2004 one ton w/6 speed. I would like to install my electric brake controller in the small pocket just under the A/C control. Can some one tell me how to get the trim from around the radio, A/C control, and pocket? I may be able to then get the pocket out of the dash so I can drill holes for the wiring and mount the brake control bracket in the pocket.



Thanks for the help in advance.

 

[RankRam]

First welcome to the TDR!



To remove the cover around the radio and HVAC controls you have to remove the screw from the trashbag hook. Then you need to pull on the cover with your fingertips till it comes off. You may need to pull hard at various spots till it works loose.



It's hard to put into words how you do this.



I hope I gave you the right idea.



Just to clarify my thoughts, the trashbag hook is the only screw holding the entire piece. The rest is held with clips that pop loose with a little pull from you.

 

[GerryDrake]

Removal

When I did mine I also removed the 2 screws at the lower corners of the bottom section under the steering wheel, and then popped it out. As I recall this exposed a 4th screw on the lower left side of the A/C heater facing. Then the whole thing pops out. Disconnect a few electric plugs and you have the whole dash to take into your garage to cut on... Really a pretty easy project...

 

[RankRam]

When I did mine I also removed the 2 screws at the lower corners of the bottom section under the steering wheel, and then popped it out. As I recall this exposed a 4th screw on the lower left side of the A/C heater facing. Then the whole thing pops out. Disconnect a few electric plugs and you have the whole dash to take into your garage to cut on... Really a pretty easy project...

Sorry my post was about my 03 with the 48RE.



You lucky guys with the six shooters have a different dash setup than me.



Thanks for the post Gerry!

 

[GerryDrake]

Dashes are different between auto/six speed ?

I didn't realize they were different. I was more concerned that there may be some minor differences between the 03 and the 04.



I think if he removes the screw you described and the 3 I mention, it should all come out with a few light 'yanks'...



Are they really different ?. . I know with the electric 4WD and dual A/C controls there will be more wiring, but ????



Dunno, really. . Gerry

 

[PJ]

I mounted mine under the dash on the left side of the wheel. Its out of the way and I still have yet to hit it getting in or out. I even used one of the existing screws under the dash. Looks good, works great and didnt have to hack up the truck.

 

[peteb]

Thanks for the help.

OK, that sounds easy enough. It may be awhile before I get my service manual, till then I hope I can depend on the TDR for advice. I guess I need to post my old 2001 service manual to help buy the new one.



Thanks for the quick replies, and thanks to all the others for posting so many good ideas, and info.

 

[GerryDrake]

Mounting location

Personal preference, but mounting it down out of the way is NOT my choice. On those few occasions where I have needed to grab the lever to override and apply the trailer brakes, the last thing I needed was to have to bend forward, reach down and locate the lever. Having it protruding slightly from the dash, at the left edge of the cubbyhole under the A/C controls is, to me, really handy. Close to where my hand goes during shifting, so a comfortable reach.