Re-installing under dash components

vancec · #1 09-26-2010, 08:49 PM

I am hoping someone can give me the sequence of installation at my current point of replacing the underdash parts. I didn't remove them so I am flying blind, but getting close. I am working left to right and at the point of having to install the center console, speaker housing and then glove box. Who can tell me what goes together first; speaker grill into housing, then... etc.

So far I have replaced the vinyl on the dash, plexiglass on the instrument cluster, light switch and radio area, repainted and reinstalled all the underdash parts except the above. I have all the interior and carpet left to do but stuck here. What's next?

Mad Scientist · #2 09-26-2010, 11:02 PM

Going from memory, which might be slightly flawed.
1. install radio if not already in place.
2. install carpet over transmission tunnel.
3. make sure all control cables work smoothly.
4. are any of the control panel light burned out? As now would be a real good time to replace them.
5. mount radio speaker and grill if not already in place.
6. casually place console into place by applying a sufficient quantity of four letter words. As I recall there is a tab on the top of the transmission tunnel that the console needs to lifted up and over, I believe (?) that there were a couple mounting screws in it to hold the bottom of the console in place.
7. install three (?) screws to mount top of console to dash.
8. reach through access hole on drivers side and find the wire coming from the speaker and blindly fumble around the back of the radio to find the socket that it plugs into. Oh and you did remember to replace that speaker wire otherwise you will probably notice that its insulation is crumbling in your hand.

Also don't forget to connect the wire from the rear speaker.
9. plug the radio's two power leads into their correct harness wires. You did mark them, right.

10. put the side access cover on.
11. take a break and go do something else for awhile.

vancec · #3 09-27-2010, 10:15 AM

Great info, thank you.
So it's time to install the carpet now, eh?
I guess I know what I'll be doing over my next hundred weekends.

Joseph Stebbins · #4 06-26-2012, 02:14 PM

OK now the Heater core has spiraled into Glove Box Spring installation then to radio removal for restore then to remove the plastic you broke so disassemble the lower dash...

SO - while I have the dash in a gazillion pieces I am going to replace the vacuum hoses lube the cables and replace any bulb I find (anyone use the new LED replacement bulbs?) Any other suggestions for things I should do/check while I am working on my under-dash-yoga merit badge?

Matt Cashion · #5 06-26-2012, 02:58 PM

I seem to recall in another post someone tried LED bulbs but the extra load they put on the dimmer caused it to burn out. Have fun---

richroni · #6 06-26-2012, 05:51 PM

If you only hear static from the radio, go back and connect the antenna (step 9a)

Joseph Stebbins · #7 06-26-2012, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by richroni

If you only hear static from the radio, go back and connect the antenna (step 9a)

Yeah I noticed that the radio is the size of a small breadbox but they put all the connections on opposing sides from the access panel - what's with that!

Mad Scientist · #8 06-26-2012, 08:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt Cashion

I seem to recall in another post someone tried LED bulbs but the extra load they put on the dimmer caused it to burn out. Have fun---

Using LED's should actually reduce the power. But finding an LED with a bayonet base could be a challenge.

Using LED's for the turn signals will not work because they will not draw enough current to operated the flasher. A different flasher would be required. Also they probably will not be as bright as the standard lamp.

Mad Scientist · #9 06-26-2012, 08:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Joseph Stebbins

Yeah I noticed that the radio is the size of a small breadbox but they put all the connections on opposing sides from the access panel - what's with that!

That is to test your dexterity.

Have you checked out the location where the speaker wires plug into the radio? You wouldn't be able to see them, but if you run you hand along the back of the radio you will be able to feel them. Oh by the way they are polarized so they go in one way.

Joseph Stebbins · #10 06-26-2012, 09:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mad Scientist

That is to test your dexterity.

Have you checked out the location where the speaker wires plug into the radio? You wouldn't be able to see them, but if you run you hand along the back of the radio you will be able to feel them. Oh by the way they are polarized so they go in one way.

Ok given the polarization WHEN I replace the cracked up stuff resembling speaker wire which pin is which and is there a modern speaker that will fit that the original radio will drive?