How to remove the lateral console panel?

[vondalyn]

We have some fender lights we want to install on the new F3 base model and it looks like we have to go up to the instrument cluster -- also we have cruise control to install. Wondering how everyone did that without removing the lateral console panel on the right-hand side.

But... we have the lower right-hand panel off and we're trying to figure out how the back of the lateral console panel clips in. The service manual makes it look like there's a sliding clip so you'd push the panel forward or backwards to lock it in, but so far we haven't had any luck. Wondering if anyone who's removed it could help shed light on what to do. This is the back part of the console panel that is next to the gas cap.

 

[vondalyn]

geez! we got it off, but what a pain in the butt...

For those who might follow us, there's a locking hook at the very back of the panel and also a built-in clip a couple of inches in front of that. The motion that you have to use to remove the panel is kind of twisting the panel to the side towards the outside of the Spyder (away from the center of the spyder). It's kind of scary, seems like you're going to break either (or both) the hook or the clip.

 

[Xyzzy]

geez! we got it off, but what a pain in the butt...

For those who might follow us, there's a locking hook at the very back of the panel and also a built-in clip a couple of inches in front of that. The motion that you have to use to remove the panel is kind of twisting the panel to the side towards the outside of the Spyder (away from the center of the spyder). It's kind of scary, seems like you're going to break either (or both) the hook or the clip.

Here is a picture of the panel off. You can see the "keyed" portion and the latch. I agree, it is very scary sounding when it pops off.

 

[SpyderGTL]

geez! we got it off, but what a pain in the butt...

For those who might follow us, there's a locking hook at the very back of the panel and also a built-in clip a couple of inches in front of that. The motion that you have to use to remove the panel is kind of twisting the panel to the side towards the outside of the Spyder (away from the center of the spyder). It's kind of scary, seems like you're going to break either (or both) the hook or the clip.

I agree! It was a really anxious moment getting that panel off - I would have sworn that I broke it based on how far I had to twist it and the loud pop it made when it did break free. After I got one side off, it was a little bit easier getting the other side off since I knew what to expect. Even still, I felt like I broke that one too!


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