patmac6075

iTrader: (26)

Kind of embarrassed here, but there is surprisingly little information (both on this site, or in the FSM) about how to remove and replace the stereo unit for an '83 (seems to be plenty for the "84-85).

Last night I pm'd another member for some help (thanks DivinDriver) and he sent me some incredibly detailed instruction....but right now I'm stuck....I have most of the stereo surround loose, but I can't seem to get the top part free. I took out the two screws at the very top (according to Glen's instruction a small black retainer should come loose) so far the black retainer is firmly affixed, and I'm afraid to pry or pull too much for fear of breaking the surround.

Anyone have any ideas....it sure would help.

I can provide pix if necessary.

Pat

DivinDriver

iTrader: (15)

The retainer is officially called the "Center Panel Set Plate."

The FSM's instructions just say "5. Remove the center panel set plate."

I've never had mine stick in place. The screws hold it against the underside of the dash pad, and basically squeeze it between a tab along the top of the stereo surround (the "center panel") and the rear edge of the recess in the dash pad that it's fit up in.

Try prying gently at the rear edge of that plastic set plate with a thin screwdriver - the edge farthest from the center panel, toward the rear of the car. It may just be stuck on the recess lip, or goo'ed in place by 30 years' of armor-all.

You could also try gently pushing upward along the edge that meets the center panel; might pop it out.

82transam

iTrader: (18)

If it's the first time that panel has been removed in the car's life then it could be stuck a little. You might need to gently pry it downward to free it from the dash (could be stuck from dried armor all etc) Assuming you've removed the Ac/fan **** and button as well as the two slider ***** (whatever you would officially call them) it shouldn't take much effort to remove.
The Tab at the top of the stereo surround is fairly flexible though, so as long as you don't go crazy it should not break.

Edit, just re-read the first post, what do you mean "black retainer"?? The Stereo surround on the 81-83's are all one piece....

Colbskee

did you pull the ash tray out? All the ***** on the climate control?

patmac6075

iTrader: (26)

OK….Thanks to all for your help. Finally got it all out. Turns out the “retaining clip” is actually part of the surround, I just gripped it with a needle-nose and pulled…came right out!
Now I’ll need a little stereo install help.

82transam

iTrader: (18)

Nice and easy once you see how it comes out isnt it? lol

What kind of stereo are you going with?

DivinDriver

iTrader: (15)

Pat... I didn't realize you were working on an FB. Sigs don't show in my PMs.

When you PM'ed for a how-to, I just assumed we were talking SA since that's all I've ever owned.

That tongue sticking forward at the top of your surround is a separate piece on the SA interiors.

82transam

iTrader: (18)

Good thing they are similar enough that your writeup still worked for him. Would be a shame to break a original part like that, not many left that haven't been cut up for aftermarket head units (like both of mine lol)

DivinDriver

iTrader: (15)

...and mine...

patmac6075

iTrader: (26)

Probably should have mentioned that Glen....All's well that ends well....

I appreciate the time you spent on that write-up, with the exception of that one difference...you were spot on....and very detailed!

Thanks

82transam

iTrader: (18)

Glen: methinks you should post the writeup for all the other confused souls on here lol