Dashboard / Instrument Panel: Service and Repair

Fig. 67 Removing Finish Panels, 1985-87 Tempo & Topaz.:

Fig. 68 I/P Panel Removal, 1985-87 Tempo & Taurus.:

1. Disconnect battery ground cable.
2. Remove two retaining screws at bottom of steering column opening and snap cover out, Fig. 67.
3. Remove steering column trim shrouds, then disconnect all electrical connections from steering column switches.
4. Remove one bolt and nut at lock collar U-joint and four screws at steering column bracket to remove steering column.
5. Remove five cluster opening finish panel retaining screws and pull panel rearward to disengage clip two snap-in retaining clips. Complete removal by rocking upper edge toward driver.
6. Disconnect speedometer cable by reaching up under instrument panel and pressing on flat surface of plastic connector.
7. Open glove compartment and depress sides of bin, allowing stops to move beyond instrument panel walls.
8. Using steering column, cluster and glove compartment openings, and by reaching under instrument panel, disconnect all electrical connections, vacuum hoses, heater-A/C control cables and radio antenna.
9. Disconnect all underhood electrical connectors of main wire loom. Disengage rubber grommet from dash panel and feed wire and connector into instrument panel area.
10. Remove one instrument panel to steering column support bracket retaining nut, accessible through steering column opening, Fig. 68.
11. Remove two lower instrument panel to cowl retaining screws.
12. Remove one instrument panel tubular brace retaining screw.
13. Remove three instrument panel to cowl retaining screws.
14. Remove instrument panel from the vehicle.
15. Reverse procedure to install.