Cluster removal issue

[bimmerR75]

So after taking everything off that holds the cluster in place. Whomever owned the car before, both of the "A" clips are snapped off, which after about 25 minutes of trying to wiggle the cluster out, I gave up as I felt i'd rather not break it.

Any suggestions on how to get it out without those "A" clips? Specific tool that won't damage the cluster while pulling it out? A hook perhaps? haha

[jeffnhiscars]

Assuming it's a non airbag car remove the underdash cover. You should then be able to reach up and tilt thentop of the cluster forward.

[bimmerR75]

Assuming it's a non airbag car remove the underdash cover. You should then be able to reach up and tilt thentop of the cluster forward.

Its an airbag car unfortunately

[MR E30 325is]

Its an airbag car unfortunately

You can still unbolt the silver metal looking thing after you take the knee bolster off. Should be able to reach up and push on the back of the cluster to get it out.

Also, a dental pick with a 90 degree hook on the end might work.

[six2midnight]

agreed, this is easily done in an airbag car too. take off knee bolster panel (if you even have one haha) and the metal support that goes across (10mm bolts)

make sure you removed the 2 knurled knobs under there too to get the plastic piece off. you should be able to see the cluster pretty easily. you can push it out.

I hope you have the steering wheel off as well. a lot easier.

if all that doesn't work, y not try a suction cup? like a valve lapping tool?

http://www.homedepot.com/p/GearWrenc...g&gclsrc=aw.ds

[superj]

I guess that since this guy never came back, he got it out.

[nando]

I've pulled the cluster out of my airbag car a couple dozen times, I never remove the steering wheel - I don't find it any easier anyway.

[six2midnight]

just gives a little more room, not working through the steering wheel. and steering wheel is 1 nut, takes me literally 26 seconds to get it off

[IceWhite]

The main problem for cluster removal virgins is the question of how to wiggle the cluster out with the "A" Clips and steering wheel in their respective places. In OP's case he doesn't have those "A" clips.