Battery DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Workshop Manual

VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE WATER LEAK TESTS
Verify that floor and body plugs are in place, body
drains are clear, and body components are properly
aligned and sealed. If component alignment or seal-
ing is necessary, refer to the appropriate section of
this group for proper procedures.
WATER LEAK TESTS
WARNING: DO NOT USE ELECTRIC SHOP LIGHTS
OR TOOLS IN WATER TEST AREA. PERSONAL
INJURY CAN RESULT.
When the conditions causing a water leak have
been determined, simulate the conditions as closely
as possible.
²If a leak occurs with the vehicle parked in a
steady light rain, flood the leak area with an open-
ended garden hose.
²If a leak occurs while driving at highway speeds
in a steady rain, test the leak area with a reasonable
velocity stream or fan spray of water. Direct the
spray in a direction comparable to actual conditions.
²If a leak occurs when the vehicle is parked on an
incline, hoist the end or side of the vehicle to simu-
late this condition. This method can be used when
the leak occurs when the vehicle accelerates, stops or
turns. If the leak occurs on acceleration, hoist the
front of the vehicle. If the leak occurs when braking,
hoist the back of the vehicle. If the leak occurs on left
turns, hoist the left side of the vehicle. If the leak
occurs on right turns, hoist the right side of the vehi-
cle. For hoisting recommendations (Refer to LUBRI-
CATION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
WATER LEAK DETECTION
To detect a water leak point-of-entry, do a water
test and watch for water tracks or droplets forming
on the inside of the vehicle. If necessary, remove inte-
rior trim covers or panels to gain visual access to the
leak area. If the hose cannot be positioned without
being held, have someone help do the water test.
Some water leaks must be tested for a considerable
length of time to become apparent. When a leak
appears, find the highest point of the water track or
drop. The highest point usually will show the point of
entry. After leak point has been found, repair the
leak and water test to verify that the leak has
stopped.
Locating the entry point of water that is leaking
into a cavity between panels can be difficult. The
trapped water may splash or run from the cavity,
often at a distance from the entry point. Most water
leaks of this type become apparent after accelerating,
stopping, turning, or when on an incline.MIRROR INSPECTION METHOD
When a leak point area is visually obstructed, use
a suitable mirror to gain visual access. A mirror can
also be used to deflect light to a limited-access area
to assist in locating a leak point.
BRIGHT LIGHT LEAK TEST METHOD
Some water leaks in the luggage compartment can
be detected without water testing. Position the vehi-
cle in a brightly lit area. From inside the darkened
luggage compartment inspect around seals and body
seams. If necessary, have a helper direct a drop light
over the suspected leak areas around the luggage
compartment. If light is visible through a normally
sealed location, water could enter through the open-
ing.
PRESSURIZED LEAK TEST METHOD
When a water leak into the passenger compart-
ment cannot be detected by water testing, pressurize
the passenger compartment and soap test exterior of
the vehicle. To pressurize the passenger compart-
ment, close all doors and windows, start engine, and
set heater control to high blower in HEAT position. If
engine can not be started, connect a charger to the
battery to ensure adequate voltage to the blower.
With interior pressurized, apply dish detergent solu-
tion to suspected leak area on the exterior of the
vehicle. Apply detergent solution with spray device or
soft bristle brush. If soap bubbles occur at a body
seam, joint, seal or gasket, the leak entry point could
be at that location.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIND NOISE
Wind noise is the result of most air leaks. Air leaks
can be caused by poor sealing, improper body compo-
nent alignment, body seam porosity, or missing plugs
in the engine compartment or door hinge pillar areas.
All body sealing points should be airtight in normal
driving conditions. Moving sealing surfaces will not
always seal airtight under all conditions. At times,
side glass or door seals will allow wind noise to be
noticed in the passenger compartment during high
cross winds. Over compensating on door or glass
adjustments to stop wind noise that occurs under
severe conditions can cause premature seal wear and
excessive closing or latching effort. After a repair pro-
cedure has been performed, test vehicle to verify
noise has stopped before returning vehicle to use.
VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE TESTS
Verify that floor and body plugs are in place and
body components are aligned and sealed. If compo-
nent alignment or sealing is necessary, refer to the
appropriate section of this group for proper proce-
dures.
23 - 2 BODYDR
BODY (Continued)

FRONT FENDER
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the antenna, if equipped. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/AUDIO/ANTENNA BODY & CABLE -
REMOVAL)
(2) Remove the battery tray, if required. (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/TRAY -
REMOVAL)
(3) Remove the cowl grille. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
EXTERIOR/COWL GRILLE - REMOVAL)
(4) Remove the headlamp unit. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/HEAD-
LAMP UNIT - REMOVAL)
(5) Remove the wheelhouse splash shield. (Refer to
23 - BODY/EXTERIOR/FRONT WHEELHOUSE
SPLASH SHIELD - REMOVAL)
(6) Remove the inside and lower bolts. (Fig. 6)
(7) Remove the two bolts below the headlamp.
(8) Remove the hinge support bolt at the cowl.
(9) Remove the three bolts along the fender rail.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the three bolts along the upper fender
rail and tighten to 9 N´m (80 in. lbs.).
(2) Install the upper hinge support bolt at the cowl
and tighten to 17 N´m (13 ft. lbs.).
(3) Install the two bolts below the headlamp and
tighten to 9 N´m (80 in. lbs.).(4) Install the inside and lower bolts and tighten
to 17 N´m (13 ft. lbs.).
(5) Check the fender positioning and adjust as
required by adding shims. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
BODY STRUCTURE/GAP AND FLUSH - SPECIFI-
CATIONS)
(6) Install the wheelhouse splash shield. (Refer to
23 - BODY/EXTERIOR/FRONT WHEELHOUSE
SPLASH SHIELD - INSTALLATION)
(7) Install the headlamp unit. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/HEAD-
LAMP UNIT - INSTALLATION)
(8) Install the cowl grille. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EX-
TERIOR/COWL GRILLE - INSTALLATION)
(9) Install the battery tray, if required. (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/TRAY -
INSTALLATION)
(10) Install the antenna, if required. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/AUDIO/ANTENNA BODY & CABLE -
INSTALLATION)
FUEL FILL DOOR
REMOVAL
(1) Open fill door and remove the bolts. (Fig. 7)
(2) Remove the door.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the fuel fill door.
(2) Install the bolts and tighten to 9 N´m (80 in.
lbs.).
Fig. 6 FRONT FENDER
1 - HOOD HINGE SUPPORT BOLT (1)
2 - HOOD HINGE
3 - INNER BOLT (1)
4 - FRONT BOLTS (2)
5 - LOWER BOLT INSERT
6 - FENDER
7 - UPPER BOLTS (3)
Fig. 7 FUEL FILL DOOR
1 - FUEL FILL DOOR
2 - BOLTS (2)
DREXTERIOR 23 - 39

(4) Remove the grille. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTE-
RIOR/GRILLE - REMOVAL)
(5) Remove the hood lamp and ambient tempera-
ture sensor.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the hood lamp and ambient temperature
sensor.
(2) Install the grille. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERI-
OR/GRILLE - INSTALLATION)
(3) Install the hood and install the nuts.
(4) Line up the marks made previously and
tighten the nuts to 23 N´m (17 ft. lbs.).
(5) Check the hood fit and adjust if required.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/BODY STRUCTURE/GAP AND
FLUSH - SPECIFICATIONS)
LATCH
REMOVAL
(1) Open the hood.
(2) Using a grease pencil or equivalent, mark the
position of the latch on the radiator crossmember.
(3) Remove the bolts. (Fig. 3)
(4) Disconnect the hood latch cable and remove the
latch.
INSTALLATION
(1) Connect the hood latch cable.
(2) Install the latch lining up the marks made pre-
viously and install the bolts.
(3) Tighten the bolts to 11 N´m (8 ft. lbs.).
(4) Check hood fit and adjust if required. (Refer to
23 - BODY/BODY STRUCTURE/GAP AND FLUSH -
SPECIFICATIONS)
LATCH RELEASE CABLE/
HANDLE ASSEMBLY
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the hood latch. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
HOOD/LATCH - REMOVAL)
(2) Remove the batter tray. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/TRAY - REMOVAL)
(3) Disconnect the three cable push pin fasteners.
(4) From inside the cab loosen the two handle
screws and disconnect the handle from the instru-
ment panel bracket.
(5) Separate the grommet at the cowl panel and
remove cable through the cab.
INSTALLATION
(1) Route the cable/handle assembly through the
cowl panel and install the grommet.
(2) Position the handle onto the instrument panel
bracket and tighten the screws.
(3) Route the cable along the fender rails and
install the three push pin fasteners.
(4) Install the latch. (Refer to 23 - BODY/HOOD/
LATCH - INSTALLATION)
(5) Install the battery tray. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/TRAY - INSTALLATION)
LATCH STRIKER /
SECONDARY CATCH
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and remove the secondary release
handle. (Fig. 4)
(2) Remove the two bolts and remove the striker/
catch assembly.
Fig. 2 HINGE
1 - A-PILLAR
2 - HINGE
3 - BOLTS (2)
Fig. 3 LATCH
1 - HOOD LATCH
2 - HOOD LATCH CABLE
3 - BOLTS (2)
DRHOOD 23 - 47
HOOD (Continued)

INSTRUMENT PANEL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CLUSTER BEZEL
REMOVAL.............................49
INSTALLATION.........................49
ASH RECEIVER
REMOVAL.............................50
INSTALLATION.........................51
CUP HOLDER
REMOVAL.............................51
INSTALLATION.........................51
GLOVE BOX
REMOVAL.............................52
INSTALLATION.........................52
GLOVE BOX LATCH
REMOVAL.............................52
INSTALLATION.........................52
INSTRUMENT PANEL ASSEMBLY
REMOVAL.............................52
INSTALLATION.........................55
INSTRUMENT PANEL HEADLAMP SWITCH
BEZEL
REMOVAL.............................56
INSTALLATION.........................56INSTRUMENT PANEL CENTER BEZEL
REMOVAL.............................57
INSTALLATION.........................57
INSTRUMENT PANEL DRIVER SIDE BEZEL
REMOVAL.............................58
INSTALLATION.........................58
INSTRUMENT PANEL TOP COVER
REMOVAL.............................58
INSTALLATION.........................59
INSTRUMENT PANEL LOWER SURROUND
REMOVAL.............................59
INSTALLATION.........................59
STEERING COLUMN OPENING COVER
REMOVAL.............................60
INSTALLATION.........................60
STEERING COLUMN OPENING SUPPORT
BRACKET
REMOVAL.............................60
INSTALLATION.........................60
STORAGE BIN
REMOVAL.............................61
INSTALLATION.........................61
CLUSTER BEZEL
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Remove the headlamp switch bezel. (Refer to
23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL SWITCH BEZEL - REMOVAL)
(2) Remove the center bezel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT PANEL
CENTER BEZEL - REMOVAL)(3) Remove the two top screws. (Fig. 1)
(4) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent, sepa-
rate the two lower clips.
(5) Disengage the two top attachment bosses and
remove the bezel.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Position the cluster bezel over the cluster and
seat the outer bosses over the posts on the left and
right sides.
DRINSTRUMENT PANEL 23 - 49

(2) Snap the top edge of the bezel into place fully.
(3) Seat the two bottom clips fully.
(4) Install the two top screws.
(5) Install the center bezel (Refer to 23 - BODY/
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT PANEL
CENTER BEZEL - INSTALLATION)
(6) Install the headlamp switch bezel. (Refer to 23
- BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL SWITCH BEZEL - INSTALLATION)
ASH RECEIVER
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.(1) Open ash receiver and place hand inside. (Fig.
2)
(2) Apply force with anabruptdownward motion
and roll rearward. (Fig. 3)
(3) Dislodge and roll ash receiver out of panel to
remove.
Fig. 1 CLUSTER BEZEL
1 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
2 - SCREWS (2)
3 - CLUSTER BEZEL
4 - CLIP FASTENERS (2)
Fig. 2 ASH RECEIVER
1 - ASH RECEIVER
2 - CUP HOLDER
Fig. 3 ASH RECEIVER REMOVAL
1 - LOCKING TABS
2 - CUP HOLDER
3 - ASH RECEIVER
23 - 50 INSTRUMENT PANELDR
CLUSTER BEZEL (Continued)

INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Seat the bottom of the receiver into position.
(2) Pivot the receiver forward and seat the retain-
ing clips fully.
CUP HOLDER
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Remove the center bezel.(Refer to 23 - BODY/
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT PANEL
CENTER BEZEL - REMOVAL)
(2) Remove the airbag control module trim cover.
(Fig. 4)
(3) Open the cupholder and fold down the inner
panel.
(4) Remove the two inner screws. (Fig. 5)
(5) Remove the remaining two top and bottom
screws and remove the cup holder. (Fig. 6)
INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERINGCOLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
Fig. 4 INSTRUMENT PANEL COVERS
1 - TOP COVER
2 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
3 - AIR BAG MODULE COVER
4 - END CAP
Fig. 5 CUPHOLDER - INNER FASTENERS
1 - CUPHOLDER
2 - INNER SCREWS (2)
DRINSTRUMENT PANEL 23 - 51
ASH RECEIVER (Continued)

(1) Install the cupholder and install the two upper
screws from the left to the right.
(2) Install the lower two screws from the left to
the right.
(3) Fold down the inner cover and install the two
inner screws.
(4) Install the center bezel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT PANEL
CENTER BEZEL - INSTALLATION)
(5) Install the airbag control module trim cover.
GLOVE BOX
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Partially open the glove box.(2) From the inside of the box press down on the
rearward edge of the bin and lower the glove box
fully past the stops.
(3) Lift the box assembly off of the hinges and
remove.
INSTALLATION
(1) Engage the glove box hinges and partially
close.
(2) From the inside of the box press down on the
rearward edge of the bin and raise the glove box fully
past the stops.
(3) Check for proper glove box operation.
GLOVE BOX LATCH
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the glove box. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/GLOVE BOX - REMOVAL)
(2) Remove the 11 screws and separate the box
and inner panel from the outer door.
(3) Remove the two latch screws and remove the
latch.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the latch and install the two screws.
(2) Install the door inner cover and box and install
the 11 screws.
(3) Install the glove box. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/GLOVE BOX - INSTALLA-
TION)
INSTRUMENT PANEL
ASSEMBLY
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
Fig. 6 CUPHOLDER - OUTER FASTENERS
1 - SCREWS (4)
2 - CUPHOLDER
23 - 52 INSTRUMENT PANELDR
CUP HOLDER (Continued)

(23) Remove the two right side mounting bolts on
the a-pillar and one right mounting bolt on the cowl
side panel. (Fig. 14)
(24) Remove the four top instrument panel screws.
(Fig. 15)
(25) Remove the two top instrument panel bolts
and remove the instrument panel.INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Position the instrument panel assembly in
vehicle.
(2) Route the park brake release rod through the
instrument panel. (Fig. 16)
(3) Install the instrument panel onto the left side
guide pin and the right side guide hook.
(4) Install the left side mounting bolts and tighten
to 12 N´m (9 ft. lbs.).
(5) Install the instrument panel drivers side bezel.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL DRIVERS SIDE BEZEL -
INSTALLATION)
(6) Install the left cowl trim panel. (Refer to 23 -
BODY/INTERIOR/COWL TRIM - INSTALLATION)
(7) Connect the headliner harness electrical con-
nector at the a-pillar.
Fig. 14 PASSENGER SIDE MOUNTING
1 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
2 - RIGHT SIDE MOUNTING HOOK
3 - A-PILLAR
4 - END CAP
5 - MOUNTING BOLTS (3)
Fig. 15 UPPER COWL PANEL BOLTS
1 - COWL PANEL
2 - FORWARD MOST SCREWS (4)
3 - BOLT INSERTS (4)
4 - REARWARD BOLTS (2)
5 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
Fig. 16 BRAKE RELEASE ROD
1 - PARK BRAKE RELEASE HANDLE
2 - PARK BRAKE RELEASE ROD
3 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
DRINSTRUMENT PANEL 23 - 55
INSTRUMENT PANEL ASSEMBLY (Continued)

(8) Install the left a-pillar trim. (Refer to 23 -
BODY/INTERIOR/A-PILLAR TRIM - INSTALLA-
TION)
(9) Position the left end cap and seat the attach-
ment clips fully.
(10) Install the right side mounting bolts on the
a-pillar and one right mounting bolt on the cowl side
panel and tighten to 12 N´m (9 ft. lbs.).
(11) Install the right a-pillar trim panel. (Refer to
23 - BODY/INTERIOR/A-PILLAR TRIM - INSTAL-
LATION)
(12) Position the right end cap and seat the
attachment clips fully.
(13) Install the one HVAC mounting screw.
(14) Connect the radio antenna.
(15) Connect the two electrical connectors at the
right cowl panel.
(16) Install the right cowl trim cover. (Refer to 23 -
BODY/INTERIOR/COWL TRIM - INSTALLATION)
(17) Connect the air bag control module electrical
connector.
(18) Install the center bracket bolts and tighten to
12 N´m (9 ft. lbs.).
(19) Install the floor console, if equipped. (Refer to
23 - BODY/INTERIOR/FLOOR CONSOLE - INSTAL-
LATION)
(20) Install the air bag control module cover, if
equipped.
(21) Connect the park brake release handle actua-
tor rod.
(22) Install the hood release handle and tighten
the screws.
(23) Install the two bolts at the column support
bracket and tighten to 14 N´m (10 ft. lbs.).
(24) Install the steering column. (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/COLUMN - INSTALLATION)
(25) Connect the wire harness electrical connectors
above the brake pedal.
(26) Install the two top instrument panel bolts and
tighten to 12 N´m (9 ft. lbs.).
(27) Install the four top instrument panel screws.
(28) Install the instrument panel top cover. (Refer
to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL TOP COVER - INSTALLATION)
INSTRUMENT PANEL
HEADLAMP SWITCH BEZEL
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent,
release the top clips on the steering column opening
cover and the lower drivers side bezel.
(2) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent,
release the switch bezel. (Fig. 17)
(3) Disconnect the electrical connector and remove
the bezel.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Connect the electrical connector.
Fig. 17 HEADLIGHT SWITCH BEZEL
1 - SWITCH BEZEL
2 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
3 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
4 - HEADLIGHT SWITCH
23 - 56 INSTRUMENT PANELDR
INSTRUMENT PANEL ASSEMBLY (Continued)

(2) Position the switch bezel and seat the attach-
ment clips fully.
(3) Seat the clips on the steering column opening
cover and the lower drivers side bezel fully.
INSTRUMENT PANEL CENTER
BEZEL
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
CAUTION: When removing and installing the center
bezel, use tape or other suitable material to protect
the cupholder and ash receiver from damage.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the steering column opening cover.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/STEER-
ING COLUMN OPENING COVER - REMOVAL)
(3) Open the ashtray and cup holder.
(4) Remove the one center bezel retaining screw
(Fig. 18).
CAUTION: Extreme care must be taken not to
scratch the ashtray door while removing the instru-
ment panel center bezel. Apply masking tape to the
ashtray door if the center bezel is not being com-
pletely removed from the instrument panel.
(5) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent, gently
pry the center bezel free from the instrument panel.
(6) Working behind the center bezel, disconnect all
electrical connectors and remove the bezel.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRU-
MENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SER-
VICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR
TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
CAUTION: When removing and installing the center
bezel, use tape or other suitable material to protect
the cupholder and ash receiver from damage.
(1) Working behind the center bezel, connect all
electrical connectors.
(2) Gently install the center bezel on the instru-
ment panel by pushing straight in and seat the
attachment clips fully.
(3) Install the one center bezel screw.
(4) Install the steering column opening cover.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/STEER-
ING COLUMN OPENING COVER - INSTALLA-
TION)
(5) Connect the negative battery cable.
Fig. 18 CENTER BEZEL
1 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
2 - CENTER BEZEL
3 - SCREW
DRINSTRUMENT PANEL 23 - 57
INSTRUMENT PANEL HEADLAMP SWITCH BEZEL (Continued)