I have an 85 gsl-se. I'm need to remove the stereo panel to replace the clock. I know I need to remove 2 screws that are under the shift cover panel, but I don't see how to remove the panel. I don't want to risk breaking it by blindy prying it off.

 

Mine is an '83 so things might be slightly different. But it is basically just held on by clips. Pull up on the inside of it from the back side (side closest to the armrest) and it will come. I just wouldn't pull from the front as there are two tabs that slide into the stereo panel.

No tricks or hidden screws (on the '83 at least).

 

I have 2 GSL-SEs, to remove the stereo trim panel simply remove the two bottom screws behind the shifter panel. Also remove your ashtray. Then remove the fan control and heater ***** by pulling on them, shouldn't be too tight. Next, remove the nuts and washers under those *****. Finally, release the holding clips on the sides of the panel. Just pull on the panel starting on the bottom and working your way up. Be very careful when pulling, this panel cracks easily, and don't pull too hard cause the wires for the lights are short and could break. Good luck!

 

After rereading the original post, I think I may have been a little confused as to what you were asking. Please note that my instructions are for removing the panel around the shifter, NOT for removing the stereo surround.

Sorry if I messed anyone up.

 

Yeah... what French said... i was gonna give full instructions that Iotus wrote, but they are identical to French's cept different order (the heater fan ***** are first). Main thing is though to be very careful... my car's (i own an 85 GSL-SE) was very easy to take apart and was still pretty strong, but i have heard of people trying to force it too much and breaking things.

Zachstylez

 

Thanks for the info. Icould just see myself busting that shifter cover and having to shell out $60 for a new one.

 

If your new to Rx-7's you'll find they're pretty simple cars to work on, good luck.

 

I can't get the fan and heater ***** to come out! One of them has a sealed crack which means the previous owner couldnt get them out either. I'm thinking about just breaking them off and buying new pieces, would those be easy to find? The panel itself is cracked too (obviously for the same reason), so I was thinking about getting a new one anyway.

 

I used a rubber grip disk (like for jars) and put that over the dial and used needel nose pliers to very gently pull the ***** off. once you get them off once you will see that they are easy to remove at subsequent times.

Just be gentel.

good luck

anthrax

 

Do not break the shift console cover as a recent search found it to be rare.

 

I have an 85 Gsl and my shifter panel, heater and fan control ***** just pull right off, of course they need a little encouregment<---i can't spell worth a hoot