Has anyone out there replaced a dash in a 98 F150? If so how bad was it? Mine is starting to die in small pieces. The plastic tabs are breaking on the access covers, radio cover, ac vents. What years will fit?
Thanks
Dan

 

I would think it could be done, but you might need a donor truck to make sure you have everything you need. Have you looked in a book. They usually have pretty good information on dashes. I would look in a chiltons or haynes

I think the dashes changed in 1999 and you may not be able to swap those, but someone will chime in and let us know. I want to change my speedo but I think someone said I couldn't use the 1999 and up cause they are different.

 

i think the speedo is part of the PATS system

 

1997-1998 truck dashes are the same, 1999-2003 are changed around. The difference is the radio bezel, instrument panel (Gauges), Some trucks have the Automatic AC, (Don't use unless your truck has it)

As far as it coming out, its a pain.. It took me about two-three days (after work hours) to get it out to change a heater core. But that was everything, bare crash bar was about the only thing left. There are screws (4) that go through the ends of the dash where the door closes. (About level with the glove box) They are not visible without prying to see them. Pain in the donkey. It can be done, but don't do it if its the only truck you have to drive. As it will take time to do it right.

 

Sorry not to hijack the thread, but do the speedo clusters interchange between the earlier years and the 99-03? I was told that they dont

 

I would guess that they would bolt in the dash, my main worry would be the plugs (3). They may be different... I don't see why they would change the wiring harness though... You may be able to make an adaptor harness from junk yard crap. If yo ucut the pigtail off in a junk yard though, they may charge you for the harness. So keep that in mind.

 

Here's a link to show you what it takes to replace the dash (with pictures). These are instructions to replace the heater core, but it has all the steps to remove and install the entire dash.
(if your truck still has the origional heater core, I highly suggest you change it while you are in there)

http://my.voyager.net/~sscully/F-150...50_Exp_002.doc

 

that would have been nice to have before I did mine. lol. It is a really good idea to change the heater core while you're there. 'cause I promise you, you won't do it again unless you have to. It sucks that bad...

 

They Don't. The 97 & 98 are analog where 99 to 03 are digital. To use the latter you have to change the dash harnes and a lot of other parts. It's just not worth the trouble b2747

 

I suggest you harvest the replacement dash personally from a donor vehicle if possible before taking off yours. Get all the hardware and small parts you can with it. A 1/4" drive six point socket set with universals and extensions, Torx screwdrivers, a metric "ignition wrench" set common screwdrivers, and a

Amazon.com: Lisle 13120 Electrical Separator Connector: Automotive

are useful to have. A BRIGHT flashlight and an inspection mirror will help.

If you hork a tab or two, save them. Plastic welding works fine.