How do I remove the trim from around the head unit? What is the best tool? A screwdriver, coin, plastic spreader? I don't want to mar or scratch anything... nor do I want to mess anything up. I know how delicate some of these new plastic pieces are. It looks like I should start from where the mini console is on the dash. Or should I start from the bottom?

 

Start at the bottom. Pop open the ashtray and pull on both sides straight out. It will be really tight the first time. But, should just pop right out. Then work your way up till it all comes off. Once you have done it one or two or a hundred times (like I have), it comes off pretty easy.

 

I use a butter knife. Something wide and thin.

 

Yep. No tools are necessary.

 

The first time you do it, you will think you are breaking something when you pull the trim out. It feels worse than it is. The plastic tabs should hold up just fine. Just grab a hold of it and, like dconder said, work from the bottom and move your way up. At the very top, you will have to disconnect the airbag safety light wires that are connected to the trim, so beware of those so you don't damage them while pulling it off.

 

good tip there...

 

 

Ashtray?!

Here is a picture:

 

I think they mean below where the cig lighter is. Thats' where you would start.


Am taking mine off in a few days to have it painted to match the exterior.

 

pretty much any corner with a #2 flat tip with some tape wrapped around the tip for padding will work. Other model trucks like FX4 have a ashtray where your cigarette lighter is.

 

Thanks for your replies... Now I feel better! You all did a good deed for a good guy...

 

I have a 98, is the process similar for that kind? I could easily wrench the trim off but I would like to not have to buy a new one.

 

upped for this guy up here. I'm wondering the same thing, because I have a 98. Do we do the same thing?

 

dam... i dont think i have ever seen such a basic interior.. i thought mine was.. but i would kina like to fool around wiht a stick 150.. is the clutch easy?

 

No, For 1997-2004 (Heritage Edition) F150's You Can pretty much just remove the Headunit itself. You will need a DIN Removal Tool. They are two horseshoe shaped metal prongs (can be found at Wallyworld) you stick into the 4 holes on the outer edge of your Headunit. Then you just kind of push outward and pull towards you and the whole thing slides right out. It is optional that you remove the circular trim piece surrounding everything. All you do for that is just find something ( I was able to use my finger) and pry it up from an edge and the whole thing pops off.