Step by Step console removal?

it is complicated. There are several versions of the console so maybe a picture would help. The steps are

1) remove the seats
2) remove the switches mounted to the console
3) remove ashtray boxes, radios.
4) unsrew all the screws holding the console to the floor.
5) remove the console in several pieces
6) make notes of all connectors (where they go, left or right) and carefully notice where the wires are routed so you can put them back just like that

 

1) Make a trip to Wal-Mart for a plastic shoe box to keep parts.
...
10) Put the shift ball back on.

Hints would be easier if you describe what you wish to accomplish as a redye and checking a switch are extreme ends of the job spectrum. Even the first time, I found to be an easy Phillips task. Once you discover two screws under the ash tray, everything comes apart and goes back quite naturally. If you need to mess with them, the R&R of the heater cables or bezels would be the most difficult job getting the end wrench to cooperate.

If you are refinishing the entire console, best to remove the seats first. Free the switch plate moving it forward slightly, then a half dozen screws holding the console to the floor are obvious as is shift stuff. If you must remove the cables from the levers, note they are paired and different so take a picture or two unless you can remember their position.

There actually are many threads if you search just the 308/328 forum for 'center console remove' but it isn't really a job needing a step by step.

 

no need for #2. only the A/C thermo switch needs to be removed as it is tied to the evaporator through the capillary tube.

No need for #3 or you can replace #3 with remove shifter ball and shifter gate

Change #5 to lift console far enough to disconnect the two electrical connectors that go forward from the switch plate, the one connector from the gauge pack and the wires to the defrost switch

5.5, unzip the boot on the hand brake

Change #6 to note location of defrost/heater cables and disconnect

#7 lift out console with all switches, ash tray and gauges intact

If you don't need to REMOVE the console, you can skip 2,5(except for the defrost switch wires),6 and 7 and just flop it over onto the floor on the passenger side so you can work on your shifter on the driver side of the tunnel.


Good luck!

Rick

 

I’m in the process of fixing center console. Adding phone charging capability through the ash tray, etc. I have a hard push and pull on the pass side defrost. Any ideas where to lube the cables and door? (Besides tracing it down) any suggestions considered.

 

Some have reported success using the sort of cable lube used for motorcycles. Basically you shoot it into the cable's tube. The path/tube is relatively easy to trace if you have a helper. From under the console, you can easily identify which cables you're dealing with (connected to the switch). Then look under the hood, and have your helper move the control up and down. You'll see it pivoting, just around/under the windshield wipers.

If you have a panel insert for the spare tire, remove it for full access to the cables & heater system.

 

Many thx for who answered my question about the defrost cables. I used green grease obtained from oriellys and 2 qtips duck taped together to apply grease where plastic and brass make contact. Sprayed rem oil down cable holes. Adjusted cables where off is all the way towards hood, and on is all the way towards engine. I can actually feel the 3 points of contact now. Thx again.