To all I have read thru all the threads discussing methods to refinish sticky interior parts. I want to remove my window switches and those various switches in the center console to repaint/replace (via Ricambi). How do these pieces come out? What is the best way to pop them out? Via the base? side? push or pull? I did not see any of the threads discussing this. Thanks.
I know the window switches come out with the door panel removed---not sure if they come out with it on...
I just replaced my driver side window switch holder and it poped right out. It has one little plastic clip on each side (4 total) holding it in. Of course two of the clips were broke on mine witch could be why it came out so easy... As for the center console, just remove the 1 screw in the ashtray and then disconnect the wiring harness...
They may have been broke clips---I don't think they should come out forward--only from behind when the door panel is off..
Actually I removed mine from the front. Need to remove the bezel (switch plate)and switches together from the door panel. The bezel has plastic tabs that hold it in place on the door panel. I used a plastic tool from a kit I bought on e-bay but careful use of some thin, stiff plastic would probably do the trick. Slip the tool behind the bezel and press in slightly and pull up. Pry up at least two sides before trying to pull the bezel off. Need to release at least 2 of the tabs. The switches come off the bezel by depressing the metal retainers (look like a small raised metal band on each side of the switch) and pushing through the bezel.
I too have decided to spend part of my winter here in NW New Jersey by de-gooing my Italian girlfriend (don't let your minds wander, gentlemen). When I got in behind the console, I was able to detach the flat, white connectors, but the switches to the upper console instrument panel are connected to a yellow (snap?) electrical junction. Well, call me an idiot, but I cannot figure out how to detach that one...and my cut-up fingers prove it. I can provide a picture of this junction, if necessary. So what's the secret?
This one is located in the upper center console (i.e. where the fuel and temp gauges and switches for emergency and ventilation system are situated). I am taking that whole panel off for de-gooing, but can't get the yellow connector in behind the larger upper panel to separate.
Is there any way to refurbish the switch finish, or do you have to replace since they have the hieroglyphic's in white?
The yellow connector that goes to the HVAC unit in the 348? Your profile doesn't indicate what car you have and the other guys are talking about the 355 controls. If it is the 348, there is what looks like a clip on the back. The clip must be pulled directly up from the yellow connector, but does not need to be removed. Pulling it up disengages the plastic clip mechanism and then the connector can be puled out of the housing. Alternatively you can remove the entire HVAC unit, which you will need to do anyway to properly clean the panel.
Really sorry about that---it's the 348. I'll give your suggested maneuver a try. By the way, how often do you swear at Ferrari electrical components? My language has deteriorated since I got the 348 two years ago, but I do smile more often.
I'm going to take back my suggestion on trying to remove the switch plates (bezels) from the front unless you have a set of plastic panel pry tools made for this type of process. The tabs on these trim pieces tend to break easily. Remove the door panel as suggested by ferrari285. It will be pretty obvious at this point how to remove them (bezels). There is a raised flat spring on each switch that you squeeze in and push out the switch from the bezel Each switch has a multi contact spade connector that pulls off. May need to wiggle as mine were pretty tight. Putting some contact enhancer like "stabliant 22a" is a good idea during reassembly. Also resist the temptation to take the switch apart to clean it better. You'll be swearing for hours as the little springs and parts go flying in all directions. You'll need a watchmakers patience to go this route! As for the white screenprinting on the switches, if you use denatured alcohol, the gooey rubber coating comes off without removing the printing. If you look closely, you'll see the rubber coating is not in the printed area as these are illuminated from behind by internal bulbs in the switch. I just took my time with lots of Q-tips dipped in alcohol.
No worries - your username tipped me off! 348's are known for having some electrical issues, and age the of the cars doesn't help. As long as it's more smiles than swearing it's all good.
+1 And new window switch surrounds are in incredibly cheap $15 for each side! Many of the pieces can be inexpensively replaced. Unfortunately, the switches are not one of them...anywhere from $100 to $200 each.
