Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Access to dash wiring and bulbs by lying on your back is a real bear. Can the instrument panel be "easily" removed (screws accessible in back?) for better access?

Not sure "easily" is the word. In addition to the two visible screws on the top inner surface, there are two studs on the cluster bottom behind the dash on either side of speedometer. Typical nuts and maybe a washer which have to be removed. You still have to be on the back to find and remove them (if nothing is in the way).

The bulb sockets just pull out and push in so not terribly difficult -- just make sure not to bend at an angle or the bulb can get caught by edge of cluster and break.

If you do try and remove cluster, bigger issue is the wiring. Sometimes it wraps around the steering column support brace. If so, the cluster wouldn't come out very far anyway and bigger still is the old wire insulation is hard, stiff and brittle. The fabric covered rubber sometimes breaks off in chunks when disturbed.

Once you get the instrument cluster out, some people leave off the nuts on the studs and only use the visible screws in front to hold it in place. Makes future removal much easier.