Trick to removing center instrument finish panel? | Ford Explorer Forums - Serious Explorations

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Trick to removing center instrument finish panel?

jeffmaaske

New Member
Joined
December 27, 2008
Messages
6
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City, State
Milwaukee, WI
Year, Model & Trim Level
2005 XLT 4.6L
I have the Workshop Manual. The instructions for removing the center instrument finish panel state "Remove the instrument center finish panel". I'm concerned about where to grab/pry without cracking it, or damaging the dashboard. Is there a trick?
 



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If its like the 91-94's theyre just those pin type things, just pull, you might have to use some force, it shouldnt break. then it will pop back in place
 






use a butter knife along the edge, something broad so you don't dent the trim. Start out bottom side and it will pry's up, work your way around the edges and it pulls out.
 






Thanks for the help. That's what I needed. Airflow at the floor is not strong. I was hoping to find a loose vacuum line on that motor, or on the selector. No such luck. When only floor is selected, it acts the same as when floor & defogger is selected. There is no difference in air flow to either floor or windshield. Airflow can be felt at both places on either of those two settings. The other settings work fine, and hot/cold is not an issue. Any ideas on what to try next, or should I post a new thread?
 






I had the same issue on my 05, took it to the dealer and they had to tear the entire dash out to make the repairs. it cost around $1200, luckily it was under warranty,
 






use a butter knife along the edge, something broad so you don't dent the trim. Start out bottom side and it will pry's up, work your way around the edges and it pulls out.

Don't use a butter knife or any other metal tool. Use nylon or plastic pry tools. You can get a cheap set at Harbor Freight designed for that exact purpose.

Here is the set at Harbor Freight.
 






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