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dakman
Dodge Dakota
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7/09/2006
00:13:05
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 Subject: Dash removal?
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Message:
I need to replace my evaporator and heater core and was wondering how hard it is to remove dash. I am fairly experienced but have never tackled this type of job. I am trying to save myself some money cause the parts are only a 3rd of the price I was quoted. Any help would greatly be appreciated.
Thanks
98 Dakota 3.9 100,400 miles
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shatto
Dodge Dakota
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7/09/2006
01:07:14
|  RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
Fingernails!
Pry off the black part. A few screws in a few places, like the bottom of the dash, are all that is left.
You'll need a (is it a star) special screwdriver to remove the steering wheel housing.
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spt
Dodge Dakota
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7/09/2006
01:31:41
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
Its not hard, but it does take time. Give yourself a full day or a weekend if you can.
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dakman
Dodge Dakota
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7/09/2006
01:57:55
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
Thanks, for the info... I plan on having a whole weekend just in case..
dakman
98 dakota 3.9
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shatto
Dodge Dakota
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7/09/2006
16:52:18
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
It's a vehicle. Plan on something not going the way planned. You'll need next weekend too.
You can drive it with the dash off.
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Izzy
Dodge Dakota
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7/10/2006
14:49:56
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
And the nightmares begin. Been there and done that Dakman...I'll pay someone next time...maybe not.
I took my time and using a factory manual I bought off Ebay for $40 I was able to pull the dash, replace my evaporator core and reinstall the dash...in 2 days. Yes there are lots of screws on the dash and some good sized bolts (1-2 on each side above the kick panels and a couple in the center bottom of dash). The wiring harnesses are bolted in place so be extra careful when removing the dash so you do not seperate the wiring harnesses in a way they are not supposed to be seperated. TAKE YOUR TIME. I baggied up each set of bolts and screws and marked the baggies with a Sharpie so I knew where they were back to.
I recommend you check all your "behind the dash" A/C rubber hoses while you have it out too. I have a leaky hose behind my dash that prevents me from using my "max" A/C setting.
Best of luck with your project.
Izzy
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Alonso
Dodge Dakota
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8/31/2006
19:03:17
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
I replaced my evaporator core a month ago.
It was not easy but I think, with the proper information, it can be done by the average doit yourself guy.
1996 Dodge Dakota Club Cab.
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GMB
Dodge Dakota
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9/01/2006
16:12:56
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
I just got done replacing my evaporator in the same truck, 98 dakota 3.9.. The dash is the easy part, just make sure you pay attention to where everything goes. Mark all the wiring harnesses so you dont get them mixed up.
The hard part is reaching the screws that are holding the evaporator on. They are located behind the engine and are difficult to reach. I had to remove several things around the engine inorder to reach them..
If you havent done this job before you have to purchase a Haynes Manual.
Overall its not that tough of a job, I think with the Haynes Manual anyone can do it if they take their time.
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dakman
Dodge Dakota
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9/02/2006
04:12:47
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
Thanks for all the info, now I have another question. I have not done the work yet but plan to soon, but was wondering what I should do about the freon. I know that I have to vaccuum out the lines in order to clear out any moisture or dust. Should I do this myself or should I just go to a shop after I have completed the work and ask them to pull a vaccum and then charge the system. I know they will charge more than it cost for me to do it but would it be easier. I have heard that you can rent a vaccuum pump that will do the job and then just charge it like you would if you were recharging the system. What have you done to finish this installation? Did you take it somewhere or did you do it yourself and How?
Thanks
dakman, 98 dakota
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Izzy
Dodge Dakota
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9/06/2006
11:31:25
| RE: Dash removal?
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Message:
I did my evap R&R myself, but had the A/C recharged by an A/C company. All I paid for was a recharge after I told them I replaced the Evaporator. They did a leakcheck and charge. I wanna say I paid like $49 but I may be way off.
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