Stephen, if my memory is correct, the switch over to the newer style console and dash assembly took place in ‘77 so yours should be the same. Quick reference for me is carpeted side panels, they became the norm with the change over. To answer your question, yes removing the console plate may make removal of the gauge cluster a bit simpler but it is not a necessity. IMHO it can also open up its own can of worms. As I stated in my original post, 40 yr old plastic can be a bit brittle depending on its condition and/if it has ever been taken apart before. When you remove the lower console plate you will be dealing with a very stiff cable that operates the heater/defroster controls. While not necessary to disconnect, once you begin to remove the plate the cable will want to straighten. That in itself is not the problem, getting it bent back for installation puts a lot of stress on the plastic screw bosses that hold the heater/def control to the underside of console plate. I think there is three bosses total, break one you’re okay, break two and you are likely in need of a new console plate. They are available, not too tough to switch out, but you will understand what I mean by the stiffness of the cable. If you have other work that you want to do to the console assembly, then yes remove it with the cluster. If not, I would just stick to the gauge cluster removal. This has been my experience with approx 8-10 ‘77 to ‘82 cars needing repairs. Which ever way you decide to go, take your time, be careful with the plastic and try to leave the big hammers in the tool box !! Hope this helps and let us know of your personal experience if you decide to undertake. Perhaps others will chime in with their experiences.
|UPDATED|3/15/2018 11:56:43 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|
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John Sigmund
valkman57@sbcglobal.net
NCRS Member 61302
NW NCRS Chapter Member
Duct tape is the new Black !!