Z31/DashboardRemoval php

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XenonZcar.com - Z31 Dashboard Removal

When I had to replace my heater core as it was leaking, I learned that I would need to remove the dashboard. I thought to my self this will take forever but it was not that hard to do and only took about one hour. Below is the steps I took to pull the dash.

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• WARNING* - Do this modification at your own risk. We Are not responsable for any issues of your own doing.

Tools Needed

• Regular 10mm socket
• 19mm socket
• Socket driver or Ratchet
• 3" extension
• #2 Phillips screwdriver
• #3 Phillips screwdriver
• 2 Small flathead screwdrivers (One with a slight Bend is best so break out the old one and bend it up)
• Steering wheel puller

Dashboard Removal Procedure

1. 
   Remove the stereo and heater control assembly:
   • Pull out the ashtray.
   • Remove the 4 stereo/climate control trim screws:

1. • • 2 screws behind the ashtray.
     • 2 black screws on top (use 10mm socket if tight).

1. • Pull the trim out, disconnect cigarette lighter and ashtray lights, and remove the trim.
   • Remove the 4 stereo/climate control mounting screws (10mm).
   • Pull the stereo and climate control assembly out in one piece, disconnect connectors, and remove.
   • Locate and remove the 4 screws holding the dash to the mounting plates.

1. 
   Remove the driver-side lower dash cover:
   • Remove 3 screws holding it in place.
   • Pull the trim down and disconnect the foot light.
   • Unplug driver's side dash harness and remove retaining screw.
   • If digital dash: remove nut/bolt holding power supply, unplug, and remove the supply.

1. 
   Remove the steering wheel column covers:
   • Remove 4 Phillips head screws:

1. • • 2 outer screws hold the halves together.
     • 2 inner screws hold the cover to the combo switch.

1. • Remove the key light connector and free the cover.
   • Be careful not to crack the cover when removing over the cruise control switch (GL models).

1. 
   Remove the steering wheel:
   • Pry off the horn cover:

1. • • GL: start at the top and pull.
     • GLL: pry from the bottom.

1. • Remove the 19mm nut holding the wheel.
   • Use a puller or loosen nut 3 turns and rock wheel to free it.

1. 
   Disconnect harnesses and remove column switches:
   
   Loosen the single Phillips screw, disconnect connectors, and remove switches off the shaft.
2. 
   Remove passenger-side lower dash cover:
   • Remove 2 screws at the bottom of the panel.
   • Pull trim down and disconnect foot light.
   • Remove plastic clip and screw to access passenger kick panel and harness connectors.
   • Disconnect harness connectors and remove the lower dash bolt (10mm).

1. 
   Remove upper dash windshield vents:
   • Use small screwdriver to push metal tabs and pry vent up carefully.
   • Remove 4 screws across the top of the dash (10mm socket).
   • Be careful not to hit the windshield.

1. 
   Remove the dash:
   
   Carefully pull the dash out and away from the steering column, ensuring all connectors are unplugged.
   • For 84–86 analog dashes: disconnect the speedometer cable first to avoid breaking the clip.

Sources Used

• 1984-1988 Nissan 300ZX Factory Service Manual