So I'm trying to paint my existing dash trim strips guards red. I've already done the ignition piece and it looks great. But I am having a very hard time taking out the passenger (haven't attempted drivers yet) side knee board/lower dash. I am re-using the existing trim, so I don't want to do the rip out and solder method I keep finding.

I've searched here, renntech, 6so, etc under all 996 sub models and the 986. Any points for me? I see about 8 rivets just in front of the foam board, but those are rivets, I cannot unscrew them.

 

No time to give details now, but I've removed the thin trim strips (3 pieces) to paint them. They unscrew from the back with small torx screw heads. No need to remove anything else. Will try to post details later.

 

Thanks, that is what I was trying to get the the torx screws. Will wait to get more details.

 

Ok, Will try to remember details.



I believe I used this DIY as a guide.

TRIM 1: First, I removed the side vent. (Removal instructions for the vent are in step 2 of this ignition switch DIY). You might also remove the instrument cluster to help access to this trim strip. (see below)

Then, using a torx T10 screwdriver bit in a 90° ratchet, I removed the screws behind the trim strip to remove it.

TRIM 2: For this one, I actually removed the instrument cluster. I was already removing it for another job, so it was no big deal. There is a DIY for removing the cluster at Pelican Parts. (see Figure 2 in the DIY.) No need to remove the steering wheel. Use towels to protect the dash.

Once the instrument cluster is lifted up and set back on the dash, access to the T10 screws on the back Trim #2 is easy using the 90° ratchet.

TRIM 3. This one is the hardest. I have a '99, so no glove box. I removed the vent pieces under the passenger dashboard, then used a series of extensions and universal joints/wobble joints with a nut driver and a T10 torx bit to reach the 8 screws on the back of the trim strip. Lying on my back in the passenger footwell, I used a small handheld mirror to see what I was doing, and a bright light to help. This one just took some patience.

Sorry I don't have any pictures to help. I believe Trim#1 had 2 or 3 torx screws, Trim#2 had 2 torx screws, and Trim#3 had 8 torx screws.

I hope this helps!

I painted mine with duplicolor adhesion promoter, several coats of Duplicolor BGM0340 Silver (similar to Alumalook), and clearcoat. Let them dry for several days, then re-installed. Installation is the reverse of removal. I'm sure I did not put all eight screws back into Trim#3. Who knows why it had so many!

 

Looks great! Thanks for the write up too, this one really helps as most seem to be with later models with the glove box. I also couldn't find one that stated to remove the instrument cluster; this seems easier than the others I've read.