The trim around the instrument cluster is loose on my '96 F150. It looks as though most of the plastic posts are broken. All the ones I've found in the junkyard are the same way. How do you remove this piece gracefully? It seems to clip on, but the clips don't look like they will come apart once installed.

 

If you're talking about the black instrument cluster panel, it's a very graceful procedure.

I removed the factory panel from my 1994 F-150 once to install a tach. It went back on just like it came off. It never gapped loose or anything. Then, I accidentally broke my tach out and got tired of staring at the sore-eyed hole, so I went and got another panel from a junkyard 1995 F-150. It hasn't fit right since. I don't know if the clips are bent back or what... But, nonetheless... When I find another one, I'm going to be careful when removing it and careful when reinstalling it.

The only way that I know to go about it is cautiously and carefullly...

Nightrain

 

It's a big bezel or trim that incorporates the light switch, fuel tank switch, air vents, etc. I wonder if there's a way to repair it, like attaching the metal clips to the remaining holes (where the posts were) with screws?

 

Yup, we're on the same page...

I never thought about that screw trick that you mentioned above. Sounds interesting, though...

I was bidding on a LIKE NEW bezel on eBay, but I stopped at $50. To me, that's ridiculous for a used panel, although they're almost $150 new from LMC Truck. But, I ain't paying that either...

Nightrain

 

I might take a look at it this weekend (between 'honey-do's'). I haven't figured out how to get the light switch **** off yet. My book says something about a hook-shaped tool, but doesn't offer any clues on size, shape, or usage. I don't want to break anything on my only ride!

 

The **** isn't that bad... Just takes a bit of figuring out.

Pull the **** all the way out, just like you're turning your lights on. Look right down on the shaft that the **** is connected to. While you're looking at it, turn the **** like you're dimming your dash lights until you see a little "notch" in the **** shaft. When you find that, take a small flathead screwdriver and press down on the little latch inside of the notch while you pull out on the ****.

You have to be firm, but gentle.

It might take you a few minutes, but that stub'ern thing'll eventually come off!

Good luck!

Nightrain

 

Yep, a lock spring on the light switch will cause most of your cursing. Other things that help, a spring hook tool. Ask the kid in the install bay at Best Buy or the like and they will have them for this.

Even with a spring hook tool, you will break a few. I have had perfect luck by super glueing the parts back on after they break. Bonus is that they hold even better after they have been glued.

I would also recommend the $10 for lock pick tools from Crafsman. Every man should own a set.

Mike

 

What'd ya use the lock pick set fer??

Nightrain

 

uh...I lost my keys.
By "I" I mean some poor guy. And by "lost my keys" I mean wanted a larger truck.

The pick set is SO unbelieveably useful that you wouldn't even believe it. Also, I just hit up my dentist for the spent sets of hygiene tools.

Mike

 

Ahh, I never thought about the tooth-tools...

I've gotta try that one next time I go in for a check-up. I always get caught-up looking at the pretty technicians, though.

I only hope I can remember...

lol.

Nightrain