[firespirit]

Hey guys, I was taking apart LRB for a top-secret you-cant-know-what-im-doing type thing... (just kidding, I was changing the cabin air filter ) And I remembered that I messed up my RPM gauge needle when installing my white gauges a short time ago. "Today's the day I fix it.. and help other people!" I said to myself... So here are instructions on how to get G3 Headunit out, and G3 gauge cluster removal! (I think this only applies to G3's with a column shift) I will start out with an explination and then the picture will follow. Hope this helps you guys!




1996-1999 (Gen 3) Taurus/Sable radio headunit remval and Gauge cluster removal

Tools you will need: 8mm wrench, 7mm wrench, Ford DIN keys, small flat head screw driver, T10 Hex key

First, use the 8mm wrench to disconnect the battery (For safety reasons). Make sure no power is being used by the car (this means DOORS CLOSED, HAZARDS OFF, HEADLIGHTS AND PARKING LIGHTS OFF, Etc., etc.)

http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133191&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010034.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Now, feel free to open any and all doors for some fresh air as you are going to be working in here for a short while.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133190&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010035.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133190&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010035.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

After this is done, the first obstacle we must tackle is the radio! You can't get the radio out unless you have the FORD DIN keys, or bent wire hanger (I find the DIN keys are much better. They are more sturdy; you can buy them at wal-mart, autozone, and just about any other store that sells automotive supplies for about $5 maximum). You will need to stick the keys in until you hear a click, or it won't go anymore. You then push the keys sideways (I.E - push to the left for the left key, and to the right for the right key) while pulling out towards you. The radio should slip out easily.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133189&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010036.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133189&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010036.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133188&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010037.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133188&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010037.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

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[firespirit]

fter the radio is out, you need to disconnect the wires. They are pretty much color coded, but you might want to mark which one goes where just in case! Be careful not to snap any connections or break/cut any wires!

http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133187&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010038.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133186&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010039.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133186&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010039.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

After that's done, set the radio to the side so it wont get hurt, broken, or stepped on (I set mine on the floor of the passenger side.. it would be safer to put it in the back seat though).

Looking up where the radio used to be, you will see only wires and the trim peice. The trim is held with four (4) 7mm bolts you must unscrew. Unscrew these and pull the trim out. (it might be a little bit hard, but don't be afraid to use a little bit of force!)

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133185&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010041.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133185&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010041.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133184&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010042.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133184&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010042.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133183&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010043.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133183&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010043.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Turning to the headlight switch (yes, you gotta remove this too!) you want to turn it all the way to the "on" position.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133182&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010044.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133182&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010044.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

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[firespirit]

Then pull the knob so that it slides out a bit and you see a hole at the opposite end of the painted part.

http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133181&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010045.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Use a small flat head screwdriver to pry the knob off. It should pop right off.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133180&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010046.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133180&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010046.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133179&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010047.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133179&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010047.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133178&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010048.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133178&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010048.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Now here comes the weird part. You need to put the knob back on! But this time, it has to be facing the opposite way it was.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133176&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010050.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133176&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010050.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Now turn the knob to the left (clockwise) until you hear 2 clicks, then pull. The unit should slide right out.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133174&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010052.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133174&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010052.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Disconnect the wires and set the unit somewhere with the radio, so it doesn't get hurt! Pull the trim peice out ( there are only clips holding it in, no screws!)

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133173&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010053.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133173&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010053.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133172&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010054.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133172&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010054.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

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[firespirit]

You might think this is odd, but you guys with column shifters! Stick the key in the ignition to the "ON" position. Set the "E" brake and shift into the lowest gear possible (which is "1") make sure to have the steering wheel all the way lowered

http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133171&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010055.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133170&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010056.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133170&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010056.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133169&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010057.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133169&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010057.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Next, there are two (2) 7mm bolts on either side of the steering wheel. Gotta take 'em out!

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133168&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010058.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133168&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010058.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133167&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010059.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133167&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010059.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

At the top, there are two (2) more 7mm bolts you need to take out.. Do this FIRST. DO NOT pull on the peice yet!

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133166&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010060.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133166&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010060.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

After those two are out, feel free to take off the peice.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133165&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010061.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133165&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010061.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133164&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010062.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133164&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010062.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133163&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010063.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133163&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010063.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

Now that your car's a mess.. I'll stop...... :uptosomthin:

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[firespirit]

JUST KIDDING! :lol:

We gotta get to the cluster!

There are four (4) gold bolts [pictured in RED] that are all 7mm. Take these out.

There are six (6) screws that hold the plastic cover on the cluster[pictured in PURPLE]. It's a T10hex nut.

http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133162&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010064.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133161&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010065.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133161&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010065.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133160&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010069.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133160&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010069.jpg' alt='' width='1280' height='960' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133159&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010070.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133159&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010070.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

There are two (2) hex nuts holding in the black gauge surround located near the gear indicater. Take these out.

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133157&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010071.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133157&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010071.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]



Install is the exact reverse of removal!

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[firespirit]

This is how it turned out:

http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133156&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010072.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133155&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010073.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133155&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010073.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133154&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010075.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133154&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010075.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]

[url=http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133153&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010076.jpg][img]http://www.supermotors.org/getfile.php?id=133153&toggle=fullsize&filename=P1010076.jpg' alt='' width='500' height='375' class='attach' />[/url]


Hope this helps someone!

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[TrueBlue]

Moved to electronics. Nice job Ash. :wink:

 

[godspunk32]

So is all this necessary for those of us that were blessed with floor shifters???

JR

 

[firespirit]

I don't think so.. But I've never worked with one that has a floor shift, so I don't know. You can ask Brad or one of the other guys though, they should know!


Oh and thank you for moving this TB Much appreciated!

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[Ryne]

the step with the headlight knob isn't neccissary... if you gently pry off that trim piece, the light controls come with it. It saves a step, that's all. Good writeup though!!

 

[firespirit]

Thank ya Ryne

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[godspunk32]

I actually looked at the inside of my car, as compared to the inside of your car, and realized that none of my trim panels are connected like your are. Mine are all independant of eachother, so I shouldn't have to remove a whole heck of alot from the interior, probably just the plastic surround.

When I install my guages, I'll take pictures for a floor-shift vehicle.

JR

 

[firespirit]

Yeah, I heard that from someone else.. I forgot who.. but he said that all I would need to do is yank the trim panel surrounding the cluster... but I tried.. and found out it was all bolts!

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[Pa|2a|)oX]

I wanted to print off this topic for when I do it so I made it into an html file so I wouldn't have to print everyones banners over and over.

Here ya go. Thanks a million firespirit, this is a very helpful topic.

Note.. don't actually click the file, it'll just give you code. Right click then save as and then open it wherever you saved it, it should open in Internet Explorer.

 

[firespirit]

No prob but it's firespirit (everyone calls me Ashley/Ash though :lol

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[Pa|2a|)oX]

My bad

 

[firespirit]

Originally posted by Pa|2a|)oX@Mar 1 2005, 11:46 AM
My bad

Not a problem :lol2: I don't mind. I'm just here B)

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[Pa|2a|)oX]

This should really be a pinned topic.

 

[spridget]

Excellent write up Ashley!!

I have a column shift, and I've been thinking about removing the instrument cluster. Now you have given all the information I needed!

Thank you.

 

[firespirit]

No prob

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