rookie needs help

i'm trying to change a auto window switch. i have all the screws out but the bezel still won't budge. It seems that the shifter won't let me get it off. any help?....sorry for the dumb question.

I know the console parts are different in your car than in mine, but have you loosened the front screws on the side of the parking brake cover?  The parking brake cover may be holding down the shifter console.  Just a thought. Norsky2007-04-19 10:02:45

I was able to remove a window switch without removing the console, just the carpeted side panels. Small wrench on the switch screws and it came right out. Tight fit but it worked. Also, the window switches are pretty crude and can be cleaned up to work again. Try opening it up by clamping it in a vise and bending up the tangs. Don't worry if some break off. Pay attention to which way the toggle is in the housing and remove it. You'll see that the contacts are simply copper leaves that can be lightly sanded clean again. Put it bact together and take a hammer and screwdriver and restake the tangs back in place. Stake some additional material along the sides if the tangs broke off. If the window operates up when it should go down you put the toggle back in the housing 180* off(ask me how I know!).

As for removing the console, don't forget the 2 screws in the gauge panel. These are installed from underneath up into the gauge housing. Be carefull, this old plastic can be pretty brittle.

mkapp78792007-04-19 10:33:48

Thanks mkapp. thats what i did.It was a little tight...lol ,but i still tried to get the bezel off and it wouldn't. I have all the screws out , but it just seems that the shifter needs to be dissconnected or something.

Did you take out the screws holding the heater controls in place? Can't remember any problem with the shifter keeping it from coming off. If nothing else, try removing the 4 screws that hold the shifter boot in place.

Hey Zag!

If you replace the switches, don't go with aftermarket switches or you will be back in there in a month or two. I went through 4 after market switches before I learned to get them from my Chevy dealer. The GM OEM parts have been in there for 4 years now without a hitch. They cost a few bucks more, but are well worth it. I did end up losing my shift position indicator in a black hole during one of my replacements, but I just count clicks to shift anyhoo.....

Dave

heater controls screws.....hmmmmmmmmmmm Maybe thats the ticket..lol

DON'T OVERTIGHTEN THE HEATER CONTROL SCREWS!! Or you crack the clear lens like me!!!