Need help...instrument cluster removal

[Gone]

I'm trying to get the instrument cluster out of my '70 Bee to replace the voltage limiter. Apparently, removing the 6 screws on the faceplate isn't all there is to it. Took them out and it acts like it's still solidly attached. What am I missing?

 

[1970GTX]

loosen the bolts holding the steering column enough to just let the column drop slightly, remove the lower trim piece, and radio bezel, and don't forget to release the speedometer cable from the speedo

 

[clazar]

I replaced the limiter on mine without having to take the panel out. I did it from under the dash.

Chuck

 

[themechanic]

I replaced the limiter on mine without having to take the panel out. I did it from under the dash.

Chuck

If you don't fit under the dash with the driver seat installed, take it out and lie down on your back. Lots easier than dropping the column and removing dash parts. Plus, you don't chance scratching finish.

 

[patrick66]

I do both - remove the seat AND drop the column. Makes everything soooo easy. I can't contort the way I used to thirty years ago.

 

[Schindy]

Are you putting the same style voltage regulator in or using a solid state one?

 

[GearAddict]

While removing the seat and dropping the column will make it easier for sure, is that really needed? Maybe it's the difference of 69 vs 70 (which I thought was very little) or Ralley vs Non-Ralley (I have never removed a Ralley cluster), but on my 69, there is generally no need to get up under the dash to remove the cluster, only to remove the speedo cable and wire harness connector.

typically I just remove the switch panel screws, pull the panels out (remove electrical connectors from the back), that usually provides enough access to the screws that hold the bottom of the cluster in place. Then remove the top 2 screws that go up into the dash and the cluster will rotate enough to slip out from the dash.

Again, maybe this is different enough on a 70 that it is more difficult, I'm sure someone will chime in, I just would hate to go through removing the front seat if you didn't need to.

 

[Schindy]

I agree with GearAddict. I wouldn't remove the seat. I found that dropping the steering column a bit and removing the screws on the front of the bezel was enough. That allowed me to pull it out enough to disconnect the wiring by reaching behind and finally bringing the cluster out.