Dashboard instrument cluster removal

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jeremyC5
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Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by jeremyC5 »

I've searched the threads, but not found anything about removing the dashboard instrument cluster.

Mine is detached from the dashboard, and I can see it WAS fixed by two bolts and nuts/wing nuts.
Can anyone tell me how on earth you're supposed to reach these from the back.
Mine is free simply because both brackets are broken off with the bolts still in situ.

The dashboard seems so full of wires, with no room at all to get a hand up behind - any suggestions ?

(not sure if my question should be under Tech: FAQs - please move if required)
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by sdelasal »

Jeremy - - there is a good explanation of how to remove the instrument cluster here: http://citroen.tramontana.co.hu/electrics/dashboard" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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citsncycles
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by citsncycles »

To get at the 2 rear mounts, remove the central tray in the top centre of the dash and the blanking plate at the right hand end of the dash at the front, where some models have a choke knob or electric mirror switch. You should be able to reach through these holes to the mounting points.

There's also 2 mounts that (from memory) are accessed by removing the column covers.
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jeremyC5
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by jeremyC5 »

That's great, thanks very much...
..such a simple way, but I just didn't know.

I just have to get some replacement parts, to replace the broken bits.

Thanks guys !!
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Tim Leech
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by Tim Leech »

make sure you do the bulbs at the same time and remember to clip the speedo cable back on properly before you do it all up again tight!
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by jeremyC5 »

Thanks Tim.

I still have reservations about doing it, it'll always be just a heap, unless it gets all it's little dings removed and has a full respray as well !!

Do you mean I should replace ALL the bulbs with NEW ones ? not just ones I've got out of another car ?

- I would be far better just buying one already done up, like the one for £1100 F/S !!, that'd be alot less hassle, but I'm not sure ablout cheaper - I only want to spend max £100 on this !! :lol:
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by citsncycles »

What to spend on a car depends on what you want to use it for. If you want a show car, then you need to start with the best motor you can afford if you don't want to end up spending more than it's value. On the other hand, if you want a daily driver that you're not afraid to load up for the tip, collect engines in or park at the local super market then IMHO you already have the best car for the job.

As for bulbs I'd pull them all and replace any that look at all suspect, as well as the ones already blown. Shop around for bulbs, as buying them with holders is expensive - I think there's a thread on here somewhere mentioning some slot machine bulbs being the cheapest available option.
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by Dollywobbler »

A job I have to look 'forward' to as well. Has anyone pulled the switches apart either side of the binnacle? I get the feeling they can only be removed with the binnacle removed, but I've got to do that anyway. Bit reluctant as the speedo needle isn't wobbly at the moment...

But the switches are not illuminating when the lights are on, and the HRW doesn't light up when it's in use either. Helpful!
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by rutter123 »

you will need to remove the steering column covers first before removing the binnacle as there are 2 screws hidden behind the top cover that hold the bottom of the binnacle in, you will prob find some of your backlights will work once you remove them and put them back in. best to bench test it first before refitting, the heater control backlights are a bit more accessible by removing the centre panel front cover. bags of 10 or 20 of these bulbs can be obtained from ebay fairly cheaply even with holders if you prefer.
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mat_fenwick
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by mat_fenwick »

You can get the switches out with the binnicle in situ, but you need a very thin screwdriver to poke between the moving part of the switch, so it can prise between the fixed part and the binnacle. Simply pulling on the moving part is likely to unintentionally disassemble the switch...

The background illumination is using the same bulb as when on, just via a resistor so that explains the complete lack of light. I've never intentionally took a switch apart, but will have a look at a spare tonight to see whether the bulb is easily replaceable.
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by Dollywobbler »

Ah, I was wrong. Turns out the fog lights were on, so the switch didn't light up unless headlamps were on. Hazards and rear wiper illuminate, it's just the HRW that doesn't - on or off so it'll be that one bulb.
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by citsncycles »

It's been a while since I've had a mk2 dash apart, but once the binnacle switch is removed as above I seem to remember it being fairly straight forward reaching the bulb, although more careful prising apart is involved.
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David
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by David »

The dash is quite easy to get apart. If you have the patience. The steering covers don't need to be removed If you have all the correct tools. If you remove the 2 tiny torques screws underneath the instrument panel surround, then a piece of plastic comes out, you can then access the lower screws. you then undo them & the lower part of the instrument panel is undone.
Providing you don't drop anything when dismantling/reassembling it then the steering covers don't have to come off.

The switches can be removed from the front, But they can be quite tricky. Its normally easier to push them from behind. Once they are removed from the surround you can carefully unclip the outer piece of the switch from the inner white part, You have to get a tiny screwdriver or two on it. I cannot remember if the bulb is accessible then or if you need to remove the white part as well. However proceed carefully if the white part has to come out or you can damage your switch.

Hope that helps.
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mat_fenwick
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by mat_fenwick »

I've had a look at one of my spare switches, and yes, the white plastic bit has to come off the back of the switch. Time for a how-to guide maybe? Although I've put the switch down, and can't remember where!
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Re: Dashboard instrument cluster removal

Post by jeremyC5 »

mat_fenwick wrote:I've had a look at one of my spare switches, and yes, the white plastic bit has to come off the back of the switch. Time for a how-to guide maybe? Although I've put the switch down, and can't remember where!
You've only just been loking at it !!!
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