When I bought my 2000, it had two large cracks on the dash top, the front (instrument cluster) cover is missing most of the clips, and the base/lower section has 2 of the three glove box door hinge-pins broken off. I plan on replacing the entire dash (top, front, and base) this weekend. I picked up used parts from the junkyard for the base and top, and hope to find the instrument cluster cover yet this week (existing one will work until I find one). It was real easy getting it out of a '01 at the junkyard since the steering column and instrument cluster had already been removed -- it was only held in place by the two kick-panel bolts. Now comes the fun part...

I've searched for instructions, but could only find notes on tilting the dash forward to get at the heater and A/C units. I plan to start by disconnecting the batteries to keep the air bags from making me need to change my shorts. Do I need to remove the steering column, or can I snake the steering wheel through the opening in the base/lower piece? I appreciate all additional help, suggestions, comments, warnings, and war stories... Thanks, Franklin

 

hijack:
what did you pay for a new top? Mine is cracked bad and when I searched for a new one I struggled to find one for a decent price

 

By pulling it out and separating the plastic pieces from the metal backing frame, I only paid $125 for both pieces (including the glove box). Otherwise, they wanted $250 for the "complete dash". I needed the lower section because of the broken hinge-pins for the glove box. It was only held in place by the center hinge -- PITA to open and close rendering it useless.

If all you need is the top, check out Jeno's Garage. They advertise new OEM tops for under $130.