I'm trying to remove the dash from my 2000 Base model and I using the instruction I found on the internet for NA models. The instructions say to remove the eyeball vents using a string. Well I tried that on one and it broke . Two questions

1. Do I have to remove the eyeball vents?
2. and if so are they supposed to come out using the jerk on a string method?

Thanks

 

I know a guy that knows and will ping him but meanwhile this may help. It could take a minute to open depending on your internet speed but click it and go to page 675. http://www.mellens.net/mazda/Mazda-Miata-1999-2001.pdf

 

To remove the center of my 92 console the two center vents had to come out as there is a screw behind each. Mine popped out easily.

 

Based on the PM charchi sent me I am guessing that I am "that guy".....


Heck no you don't have to take the eyeball vents out....who wrote those? I actually laughed when I read that....

There are two bolts on each side of the dash facing outwards toward the door panel, two at knee level in the center on both sides, and one at the very center at the top near the windshield(don't hit your windshield with the wrench....). Now those are the easy part.

Under the dash there are three sleeved wires that work your HVAC equipment, I think there is one on the drivers side, and two on the passenger side but I don't remember exactly. These are what tripped me up the first time I took one out because the dash will be able to move a fair amount at this time so you think it is loose, but its not. Take those off, and assuming you already have off the guage cluster it should be about ready to come out. It still is going to fight you, but you should be ready. If you still have trouble PM me and I'll send you my number and we can talk through it.

 

Thanks for the help....

I looked at the manual that Jim directed me to and it says to take off the A pillar covers. Did you do that?

 

LOL yes sir nailed it Travis! I've never taken an NB apart but I knew it would be fresh for you!

Michael is spot on for the NA there are blind screws behind the vents. I would think you would want to take the kick panel covers off anyway as there is plenty of wiring you will deal with behind them on both sides. If you are going to seam weld at all then every bit of plastic needs to come out. Just don't be like me and go 20,000 miles and counting with out putting them back!

 

It makes it easier, but is not required. Since you are putting this car back together eventually I would go ahead and do it so you don't damage them accidentally.

 

Got it out thanks again

 

Good deal! I just did this swap recently. The 2 credit card trick is what I've always used, works alright (if you don't need your credit cards!)

I was going to say, now's a great time to ditch those things for these:

How-To: 3rd Gen Mitsubishi Eclipse Dash Vents in an NB

 

Wow Nick that ^ is cool! Have not seen that before.

 

It's so far awesome! Now to actually get the dash back in the car! haha. But from all the guys I've heard do it, they all rave about it. My Vents always drooped and gave weak airflow. The Mitsu vents can be closed, and increase the strength to the other open vents, great for solo driving.