Dash removal for heater matrix

Dash removal for heater matrix

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rtg

Original Poster:

67 posts

120 months

Friday 13th December 2019
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Anyone got any information on dash removal for an S3? (Not just the metal fascia - the whole lot). I've got to replace the heater plumbing and most importantly (apparently) sort out why SHMBO is freezing cold in the passenger seat while I'm nicely roasting. Cheers.

phillpot

17,279 posts

190 months

Friday 13th December 2019
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Plumbing? just the pipes to the heater matrix from the engine?

horrible job but can be done without removing the dash, steering column out gives enough access if you don't mind working upside down!

If it's the same as mine the only heat to the passenger footwell is from an "eyeball" vent in the panel by the passengers left leg. There's every chance the long length of flexi hose to it is split or detached?

Another "issuer" i found was the flap which moves to direct air either to the screen or the interior is a poor fit in the box, even when set to interior air could blow past it to take the shorter/easier route out the screen vents. Something to look at if you do strip it right out smile


As for removing the dash, I can't remember, just keep undoing things till it comes free!

mentall

469 posts

137 months

Friday 13th December 2019
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Got mine out now (for the second time). Awful job.

I can't see how you'd get the heater unit out without removing the whole dash, then cutting (and then replacing) the GRP panel in front of it.

To remove the dash complete:

1. Wheel and column switchgear off.
2. Centre console (multi-way plug/socket connectors) and glovebox out.
3. Each end of dash moulding, at the bottom: a screw attaching it to an agricultural bracket on the body.
4. The worst bit: up and under, 4/5/6 screws through the underneath of the demist plenum, up into the dash top. Some are hidden above the heater. This bit (in fact, the whole job) is easier without the seats.
5. Demist vents out (they're basically a push-fit, but fragile)
6. The dash will be a tight fit, probably with stray sealant under the screen. Put a short batten into each of the demist vent holes, each with a loop of rope passing around the seatbelt top mounting. Twist the rope loops (a 'Spanish windlass') until the dash starts to move.
7. Then remember to detach the heater valve control cable at the valve so the cable can move back with the dash.
8. Pull out the dash, and disconnect a few multi-way plugs and sockets and the air-flap control.

One of the worst jobs on the car. I'm doing it again, so as to replace the entire heater with a decent unit, with proper air controls and even a fresh-air inlet. Blowing moist air around the car won't do any more.

I think I've sourced the parts: I'll post more when it's done.

Edited by mentall on Friday 13th December 16:30

RayTVR

1,074 posts

150 months

Friday 13th December 2019
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I did this last year and actually its not as bad as it sounds.

Thread here

mentall

469 posts

137 months

Friday 13th December 2019
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I see you're about an hour from me (we're 20 mins South of Bath).

If it would help to see the dash out, and to see how it comes out, just PM me.

rtg

Original Poster:

67 posts

120 months

Tuesday 17th December 2019
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Ok - many thanks for the instruction list. Another Christmas job!