Trouble Removing Cluster

[thenative1]

All,

Thanks to Marshall (Trollhole), I have most of the LED bulbs I need as replacements in the cockpit and for things like the interior lights (already replaced those, great upgrade).

However, in trying to get to the cluster, I removed the two screws holding it in place, tilted it forward and...I'm done. As much as I tried, as gently as I wiggled and pulled and tipped it forward, it's just go zero play beyond approx. two inches of forward tilt (see picture).

And in exploring in/beneath/around the dash, it was unclear to me what might be restricting my ability to remove the cluster. So, what's the story? Who has the magic trick that will allow me to get the cluster out and replace the existing bulbs so I can actually see the speedometer etc. at night?

Thanks,
Evan

 

[Michael Hanson]

Hi, They frequently do that depending on how the cable was routed. Get your hand under the dash and remove the speedo cable from the back. It should then come out. Mike

 

[Gumby]

Yep. Speedo cable is holding you up.

 

[thenative1]

Gents,

Thanks for the prompt replies. Will try to get my hand up there to disconnect the speedo cable. What am i looking/feeling for? Rectangular plastic four pin? Just pulls straight out? Squeeze clips to disengage it? Any advice you can give will be appreciated. Trying not to pull something out and create a problem where (currently) none exists.

Also not going to be easy to do since I have hands approximately the size of small shovels.

Best,
Evan

 

[Tepper]

The speedo cable should be finger tight. Just be aware that there are tabs on the lower portion of the cluster that need to clear the dash when removing it. You do this by tilting the top portion out and then lifting the cluster out.

 

[Gumby]

There is a knurled nut on the early clusters. Follow the cable up with your fingers. At the top where it goes into the back of the speedo head there will be a round part. Turn that. It goes CCW if you're looking at the back of the speedo, but CW if you're looking at the face

 

[thenative1]

Awesome - thanks. I'm going to try and tackle this over the weekend. I may need to borrow someone else's tiny hands to do it but I appreciate all the counsel on what I'm looking for. I'll report once I've completed it. Thanks again.