5.0 LX Tech, Chapter 2A
Interior Center Console Removal

Removal of the center armrest:
There are plastic caps at the rear of the console which conceal the bolts holding the armsrest. The caps are removed using a small screwdriver. Place the screwdriver at the top end of either side of one of the caps and pry the screwdriver down between the cap and console. (Note: Be careful not to sratch the plastic. It may be useful to place electrical tape or duct tape on the end of the screwdriver to help prevent any possible scratches.) This procedure is demonstrated in Figure 1. Next move to the other end and pry the other top-half of the cap loose. The cap should now come free. Repeat this procedure for the other side. Once the caps are removed, the bolts holding the arm rest are accessible. The factory bolts are removed using a 5/16" socket with an extension. (Note: If your car has been previously worked on, you may have different size bolt heads.) There are two bolts per side. When all four bolts are removed, the armrest can be lifted off.

Removal of trim piece around shifter:
This trim peice is held in place by four clips and must be pryed out. Use a small screwdriver at each of the ends to pry the peice up. (Note: Be careful not to sratch the plastic. It may be useful to place electrical tape or duct tape on the end of the screwdriver to help prevent any possible scratches.)

Removal of console which holds ashtray:
Once the center armrest and trim peice around the shifter have been removed, the console holding the ashtray can be removed. This is done by removing four phillips head screws; there are two at either end of the console. The parking brake should be in the upright position, i.e. on position. Next disconnect the connectors to the cigarette lighter and remote mirror switch. (Note: A small screwdriver will be useful in removing the remote mirror switch. Use the screwdriver to pry the connector out and alternate between the two tabs.)

Removal of the ashtray door:
Once the ashtray console is removed, place the ashtray door in the open position. Grab each mounting tab and rotate the door closed about 10 degrees. Maintain a firm grip on the tabs and free them from the console. (Note: It is important to maintain pressure on the tabs since the spring is under tension.) Once the tabs are free, release the door and then remove the spring.

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