1966 Vet dash removal

[Wynn Roberts]

Dear nCRS
I have a 66 and needed to do a job requiring removing the dash panel. I was told that after all the back wires etc had been disconnected, the panel could be pulled forward and removed.
Unfortunately, mine did not quite work that easily. I find that the steering wheel does not drop sufficiently to remove the dash without damaging it. Is there a trick I have missed? Should I have to unhook the steering column under the hood?

Sincerely
Wynn

[Clark D.]

Re: 1966 Vet dash removal

Go to: www.adirondackncrs.com/cluster.html. A very good article on the cluster removal.

[Gerard F.]

Re: 1966 Vet dash removal

Wynn,

I've had the dash panel in and out 3 times on my 67 without removing the steering column like the article says. Just loosen the bolts in the bracket under the dash, to let the column drop slightly. In the collar on the column under the dash panel is a pin which goes into a hole in the dash panel. You have to drop the column enough to clear the pin from the hole.

If the column doesn't drop far enough pull the dash and collar to you, tip the top of the dash to you, and lift the panel up off the pin.

You really do not have to remove all of the wires initially, but you need to remove the oil gauge line and any other cables that prevent panel from moving.
Make a sketch of the back of the panel, and label each connector and light bulb as to position on the sketch as you take it off. This will save a lot of time putting it back on, and in the future for reference.

You should remove the steering wheel from the column to get it out of the way,
but the last time I did it, I left the steering wheel in place. If you want an easy job on your back for removal and reconnecting, remove the drivers seat.

I'm pretty sure I just followed the instructions in my 67 service manual the first time, and I don't remember it mentioning removal of the steering column.

Jerry Fuccillo
#42179

[Philip C.]

Re: 1966 Vet dash removal

Wynn Everbody has their own way because some of us could be a jockey or a summo type.To me take out the column (its easy) leave the seat! The wires you have to worry about are the warning lights for: headlites, parking brake,HI beam and the signals,they go into special spots. the sketch is a good idea. I use two long rods thru the cluster mounting holes into the corresponding nut plates on dash, this holds it up and away to make it easy to plug everything back in the cluster, wireing etc Good Luck Phil 8063

[BOB LOVETT]

Re: 1966 Vet dash removal

I removed my dash on my 66 coupe about 6 months ago.....disconnected the steering c. from the steering box under the hood....it's not hard,you just need to mark the col. prior to removal....disconnect the u-joint connection under the dash which allows the co. to drop & pull the s/c back a little...this allows the dash to be removed...need to disc. the oil & speedo....mark all the lamps,etc.You may want to replace all lamps while out......there are kits.......B

[Dave B.]

Re: 1966 Vet dash removal

Wynn,
I HIGHLY recommend you consider checking out the two articles in the July and September 2004 issues of the Corvette Enthusiast written by John Hinkley. They are excellent and I personally used them to remove my '66 dash. Very clearly written with photos.
Good luck,
Dave