Getting the Instrument Cluster out of a 66

[usnabill]

Hello all,

I searched the forum and bought the shop manuals but I just can't seem to get the headlight switch disconnected from the back of the instrument cluster in order to pull the cluster from the dash. What I know so far...

-I can get the headlight "pull" from the unit by pressing a spring on the headlight switch
-I should be able to unscrew the bezel from the dash thus disconnecting the headlight switch

The outer bezel will spin freely, but the inner bezel which should screw from the switch is frozen in place. Am I missing something?

(It's a 1966 truck)

[CRGRS 66]

I just replaced my headlight switch, and knob last week, had no issues.

Have you unplugged the wiring harness?

An extra large flat screwdriver on the front bezel, and holding the switch while you spin the bezel should do the trick. If not, maybe the piece that the bezel screws into has come free from the switch and is turning with the bezel. The knob and the switch are the easy inexpensive items to replace. You may want to make sure you save the bezel. If you have to sacrifice something make it the switch (12.95 me thinks).

Hope that helps!

[CRGRS 66]

How did you make out?

[usnabill]

Well, its still not coming out... I am doing my best to avoid damaging the bezel, but I will keep working at it with a larger screw driver. I do appreciate your advice though.
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[cb1965]

Originally Posted by usnabill

Well, its still not coming out... I am doing my best to avoid damaging the bezel, but I will keep working at it with a larger screw driver. I do appreciate your advice though.
Posted via Mobile Device

you will need to use the screw driver as a chissel and hit it a couple of times counterclockwise. its probably really tight.

[CRGRS 66]

Originally Posted by usnabill

Well, its still not coming out... I am doing my best to avoid damaging the bezel, but I will keep working at it with a larger screw driver. I do appreciate your advice though.
Posted via Mobile Device

I hear ya, the switch and knob are easily replaced, the bezel (assuming you are referring to the round bezel for the switch, not the instrument bezel) may be an item to search the yards for.

[1963c-10]

They also make a tool for it, the wiper bezel and ignition

[XtechX]

I used some penetrating spray and a pair of needle nose pliers opened up to spin mine out.

[usnabill]

Great advice, I will try this afternoon!
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[usnabill]

I finally got the cluster out with the help of a screw driver, a hammer, and some pliers. Now in my attempt to refurb the gauges, I need some new odometer decals. Has anyone had luck with the website "lategreatchevy"? The decals say they are for 56-72 chevy cars but I have to assume the odometer barrel would be the same size on a C10?
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[1963c-10]

Try this site for the correct decals for 60-63 and 64-66. http://www.wix.com/parklane410/home These are the correct decals and the price is right also.

[CRGRS 66]

Originally Posted by 1963c-10

Try this site for the correct decals for 60-63 and 64-66. http://www.wix.com/parklane410/home These are the correct decals and the price is right also.

I think LMC sells this very decal kit, not sure of their price though