Instrument panel lens removal

[T Bolen]

Help! I'm trying to remove the instrument panel lens ( the large plastic piece that covers all the gauges) and I am stuck on the bottom area where the lower dash cover attaches just below the gauges.Got the bottom of the dash cover loose. I cannot figure out how this piece comes out which will (I assume) then expose the screws for the gauge cluster. Any ideas?
Tom

 

[Zishan]

I did a quick search and found this:

1st example
"Start out by removing the steering column covers. You'll see screws that will be holding the entire instrument cluster in the dash. Unscrew them. Next, remove the two large electrical connectors at each end at the bottom of the cluster. One is below the odometer and the other under the voltage meter."

2nd example
"You will need to remove the driver's lower kick panel, then the guage cluster pod's outer trim (four phillip's screws). Disconnect the two green connectors behind the steering wheel, under the pod, and the two larger green connectors behind those. I think there are then 4 more screws that secure the pod to the dash. Lower the steering wheel all the way, place a cloth on the steering wheel to protect the clear plastic guage pod viewing port. Tilt the top of the pod down, and remove at a 45 degree angle."

Hope that helps..........
Z

 

[Zishan]

Also found this:

http://www.acuraautomotiveparts.net...+NSX&catcgry4=KA5MT&catcgry5=METER+COMPONENTS


Z

 

[T Bolen]

Thanks for the quick replies. I was at this all afternoon yesterday and did my own searching on Prime. Got the same results - the problem is that neither is clear about the lower dash panel and how it is attached to the bottom of the gauge cluster.
Has anybody done this?
There has to be a secret.

 

[Zishan]

Sorry I can't help you with the specifics since I've never actually done it, but I'm sure someone here can.
Z

 

[Larry Bastanza]

Service Manual!!

Tom,

Page 23-128 in the on-line manual provides the steps to remove it.

HTH,
LarryB

 

[Acura NsX Pilot]

if you do a search on guage installation you may find your answer there also.....i installed my guages a while back and i remembered that you have to remove everything from the footwell and up to the dash to get access......i hope this helps

 

[T Bolen]

Thanks sooo much Larry Bastanza! I have basically made it to step 2 as shown on page 23-128 but the upper fasteners for the dashboard center panel are the culprit. From the illustration, it appears that this must be just a push in/pull out friction fastener as there is nothing exposed. I am reluctant to pull too hard on this as I am afraid I may damage the panel. This is where it is hanging up.
Do I just pull real hard on it?

 

[Larry Bastanza]

Tom,

I have not done this personally, so I cannot make a recommendation. I am sure that Acura NsX Pilot has though!!

Bailey, enlighten us!!


LarryB

 

[LJSB]

The lower cover has screws on the bottom and on top, two plastic "tongues" or blades that have a spring clip on them. They point straight into the cluster. One on each side of the cover.
Wrap your fingers around the top on one side of the cover and pull it out. It will come out with a pop. Slow gentle prying pressure straight toward you. Repeat for the other side. Don't yank, gently pry it out. When it pops you'll think you broke it but you did not.
I always softly curse when I do this. It seems to help.

 

[T Bolen]

Update - pbassjo is correct - cursing is the key! I did get it to come out but what a pain! Straight out pulling force is the key.
Thanks everyone for the help!