I agree with champco if at all possible try to sneak it out. However if you need to get behind there it’s not that difficult. There are two ways of going about it:
Radio Removal:
For this you will need some sort of plastic trim removal tool, and a ratchet with a metric set of sockets (sorry I forget exactly, most likely an 8mm, or 10mm)
Start from the top edge of the silver trim located to the left and right of your radio controls with the trim removal tool to pop the top clip loose. Work your way down popping the trims clips loose. Finally remove them by pulling straight towards you. Then you must remove 4 screws that retain the entire radio/HVAC control unit-trim piece. The entire unit from the air ducts down pulls towards you with very little pressure applied. At the bottom rear edge of that control panel there is one wire connection point that you must unclip. 4 bolts hold the lower CD portion of the radio in place, remove those 4 bolts and unclip the 4 wire harnesses attached to the rear of the CD unit and it will slide out towards you. At this point I would imagine this would give you access to get at the area those items have fallen into. If not…
Console deconstruction:
This is a little more difficult but still do-able in just a few minutes. First start off by opening your armrest, next in the floor board area on both passenger and driver side you need to work the the consoles side trim pieces lose (You can do this with your hands) working your way back towards the rear of the console, be careful not to break any clips if possible. You will only need to pop these pieces of trim off to the point of the front of the armrest opening. I suggest leaving the rear most part attached. Next lift the latch cover from both sides using even pressure it is clipped into place on both sides. (part#3) in the diagram KK239 provided. Beneath that piece of trim there is a single screw located on the passenger side (part#5), remove that screw. Lift the tab where the screw you just removed was. You will have to work your fingers underneath to remove the clips holding the entire center portion of the console out. It then pulls up and out at an angle.
You will have to pay attention to your gear select lever, Terrain management knob and any Aux power-points in your particular Explorer as I am not entirely sure how to work around some of those as they are not present in my particular vehicle. Hope this helped, and if you need any clarification or extra help just let me know. I’m sure more than just you will benefit from this thread.
