chuckcal

I was able to get the radio out, but, it wasn't pretty, there has to be an easier way.

The rear brace and the brace on the side that connect to dash panel are were difficult to get at. Is it supposed to all come out together?

I couldn't find any R/R instruction online, any pointers are appreciated.

MDchanic

All you do is remove the four screws that hold the radio cluster face to the dash pad, pop down the two flood lights and the map light for clearance, and pull it out.
If there's still a rear brace, you remove the lower dash panel that runs from the steering column over to the glove compartment, and then it's easy to reach everything up there.

Ease of access for repairs was one of the features they advertised for the new modular dashboards in '71.

As far as I know, all of the instructions are pretty clear in the Chassis Service Manual.

- Eric

jaunty75

I replaced the radio on my '73 Custom Cruiser. You have to remove the lower trim panel on the right side of the steering column, as Eric mentioned, and then everything is easy to get at as far as the radio and everything else under there goes.

I don't know of any other way to get it out. How did you get it out if you didn't remove the lower trim panel?

chuckcal

I didn't realize the radio would come out with the cluster, so I twisted the cluster enough to unscrew the side brace, was worried about breaking the plastic. Went in much easier with more of the lower trim panel unscrewed.
Thanks everyone.

MDchanic

Glad you got it fixed!

- Eric