Kick Panel Removal

Q: Kick Panel Removal

How do I remove the kick panel? I have tried everything and am worried I am about ready to break them or my knuckles.

A: When removing the panels( this is one thing that is easier to do on an A/C equipted car) I have found , as others have said, to use proper force. However with a proper fulcrum and lever,you can move the world… or at least the kick panels. heres how you do this:

1. make certain all screws are removed(dont laugh some are hidden)

2. remove complete emergency brake assembly (dont cheat here either)

3. gently remove the panels until they are caught by the ribbing, this will give you at least 3 inches of space between the panel and cowl

4. insert desired lenght of 2×4 against the part of panel that ribbing is at

5. push against the panel at ribbing, towards front of car with 2×4 while also prying against the cowl as to pop the panel out. keep in mind that the panel is plastic and is somewhat forgiving in that it will return to its former shape if excessive force isnt used.

You will then be able to remove kick panels in a matter of seconds, and with this new found knowledge will frequent junk yards to remove all that you can find.Well ,maybe.

If you are careful enough and you dont break the upper skinny part,you can reuse the old panels.Be sure and lube up the flapper cables and reseal the cowl to kick panel with generous amounts of duct seal. This is neccessary for a leak proof(water and wind) installation. Installation is much easier as the panels seem to pop right in . (be careful and dont push on the grille portion as this will break.)This is also a good time to remove all the leaves and dead critters from the cowl plenum and rust proof it on the inside.

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