Taking out the dash pad

[flores_57]

I'm trying to replace the gauges with a new set...but I can't get the dash pad out. I think I took all of the nuts off the pad, but it will not budge. Can some one PLEASE post the proper procedure to remove the dash pad...B4 I beat the  out of it  :pullinghair:Thanks alot 

[ShelbyDogg]

If you didn't take off all 11 nuts here, keep going. If you took off all 11, then PULL!

[Alaskan_TA]

You can replace the cluster without removing the pad, you may find the images at the link below useful;

http://www.hamtramck-historical.com/ServiceHighlights/1970PassengerCarHighlights10.shtml

[ShelbyDogg]

Barry,   Those instructions say to remove the pad before removing the cluster. That is how I read it.  Not pulling the pad always ends up with a scratched woodgrain. (that is how mine always got scratched, and I was careful)

[72rtchallenger]

You can replace the cluster without removing the pad, you may find the images at the link below useful;

http://www.hamtramck-historical.com/ServiceHighlights/1970PassengerCarHighlights10.shtml

  it can be removed with out pulling the pad
also did you remove the bolts at the defrost vents? and mine had screws at the outer sides of the pad,,,could be seen when doors are open

[Alaskan_TA]

Barry,   Those instructions say to remove the pad before removing the cluster.

I do not see that in there at all. 

[ShelbyDogg]

I do not see that in there at all. 

I guess I was looking at the text about servicing the pad, then looked at the rest of the pics about sevicing the cluster. All of the pics show the pad off.     

I have never pulled my pad to R & R my gauges but the sides of the pad opening get cracked and the woodgrain gets scratched almost everytime.