Removing instrument panel cover - question

[rsg123]

When I bought my M45, I noticed lots of spots on the instrument panel plastic. When I tried cleaning them, I discovered they were on the inside of the plastic. The only way to clean it would be to remove the instrument panel cover.I am going through the service manual available on this site, and it states that the first step is to disconnect the Hood Lock Control (BL-18) which first requires removing the grill (EI-16) and fender protector (EI-20).I can't tell from the service manual, but before I start ripping panels off, why do I need to remove the grill, fender protector and hood lock control before I start gaining access to the instrument panel?

[SteveTheTech]

You got me. If you are trying to clean around the gauge pods all you really need to do it remove the screws from the uppper part of the black cover and carefully seperate the locking tabs on the top part of the lower dash finisher. I think there are four screws total. I will try to get some pictures for you. It looks much easier than it sounds now that I see this written out.

[rsg123]

That would be great--I am a visual person so pictures would help a lot. Thanks!

[ArbitrageMan]

I read the instructions as "Remove hood opener mounting bolt." I dont think you need to take the entire Hood Lock Control mechanism out. I think the instrument panel assembly instructions are just referencing the BL-18 instructions to show where the "bolt" might be.

BUT, I concur with Steve. I dont think you need to do any of that. From the assembly diagram it looks like you just need to take the instrument finishers off.

Heres a link to the assembly diagram...if one isnt posted somewhere around here.

http://www.botechs.com/m35/sm/ip.pdf

[SteveTheTech]

Ahh It was a slow day today and I only had one M and it was a first oil change and I did not have the time to photograph it today.

I looked at it though and it is pretty easy to get out and I do not think you will need any tools other than a small panel tool or flat-head screwdriver and some patience.

referencing http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/M/2006_M45-M35/ip.pdf (ip-12)

Sometime I find removing the lower section of the drivers instrument panel do not require removal. You may save yourself some time by using your fingers under the steering column to pull gently towards the seat. Once you get the three or four locking tabs released under the trim pieces. The pictures show the securing points for the trim pieces around the combination meter. There are actually no screws or bolts just some locking tabs.

Special attention needs to be payed as the trim pieces are very malleable and mar easily. You will need to insert the screwdriver or suitable tool into the point at the dash where the combination meter cover meets the pad you will need to use your best judgment and a small amount of force to release the tabs. After the first time any subsequent removals will be much easier.