Not sure if it's the same as in the 81 but I left the switch in, just unplugged the switch from the wire harness and too it out once I had the dash out. As I recall there was a knob/button that I had to push to disengage, not sure if I actually did that as I believe mine was loose...heck it's been 3-4 yrs.
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Dave C..........My mantra: I can not be bought!! Long and short term leases available.
In the words of Zora Arkus-Duntov "Is your seat belt fastened? Alright, Let's go"
Yeah, I know, Shut up Dave.