Best guide for dash removal/carpet replacement?

[MoonieGT]

I've decided that it's about time the unique smell of the interior of my 1999 has got to go. I bought a fitted carpet kit from Moss and new carpet pads. My plan is pull the dash, clean it inside and out (especially HVAC system), and pull out the old carpets and pads and give the tub a good scrubbing. The old carpets are so brittle that they tear like cardboard, or maybe that's just how good the oem stuff is?

Anyway, I have not been able to track down a particularly good guide on how to remove the dash. I've found a few forum posts that kind of point out some bolts, but there's usually some awesome guides out there in miata land. Anybody have their finger on a good one?

Thanks

[Titus]

I would assume that it is much like an NA dash. For the NA, you remove the gauge cluster, tombstone, radio, HVAC controls, and panel under the steering column first. Then unbolt the steering column so it drops down (4 bolts). Then I believe there are 9 bolts holding the dash in, all under little rectangular plastic covers. They are on the sides (only visible when door open), on each side of the center stack, and one at the center of the dash against the windshield. Take those bolts out, disconnect any wires running between the dash and car, and lift out. Much easier with the top down, but I have removed mine by myself with the hardtop on. Reinstalling is where a second set of hands is useful.

[OZMDD]

Its even a tad easier than the NA dash, imho. Just work slowly and deliberately, and unplug all the harness connections first.

If you'd like to simplify, I have a very nice condition NA1 black dash for sale, with tombstone. I see a lot of track-oriented NB's with the first gen dash, which also eliminates the pass airbag.

[hornetball]

I'd also recommend pulling off the windshield header plastic trim. That gives you lots of clearance to easily get the dash in and out solo. If you don't, you'll scratch up that plastic trim (don't ask me how I know).