Fuse Block Removal

SGaynor

Well-known member
Dec 6, 2006
7,148
162
52
Bristol, TN
Anyone know of an easy way to remove the fuse block behind the kick panel under the steering wheel, short of removing the dash? (yes, I know to open the panel)

I can get the block loose, but getting the wiring in the back of it disconnected seems to be near impossible.
 

jprover2

Well-known member
Apr 8, 2017
146
10
Birmingham,Al
You have got it right so far. You have to turn it to where the connectors that you are trying to release are closest to you with enough room to get hand or fingers in. If they have been connected for 15 yrs you may have to help them out with a fine tip flat head or a pick, but be very careful. Also if the foam pad is still under the column get rid of it, it might give you more room. Also fingers of steel help.
 

PhD_Polymath

Well-known member
Feb 6, 2015
104
1
Slightly west of Boston
It is nearly impossible, but not absolutely impossible. Depressing the clips on the harness connectors in that tight space is a real bear sometimes. I found that after pulling the nut that holds it in place (on the top of the block), tilting it out as much as possible is the only reasonable way to access the back. Getting the connectors back on is every bit as much of a pain in the ass.


Important note: If replacing the block, be absolutely certain you get one for your year of truck (i.e. facelift vs. pre-facelift). The wrong year block will fit in fine and connect to the harness, but will really screw things up with your truck's electrical system. Feel free to ask how I know this. There is also a wait time when installing a new block before you can turn the key to "Start" while the light in the gauge cluster stays illuminated. From what I gather, the computers and fuse block need to re-establish their connection during this time. Once the block is in and battery reconnected, turn key to "Run" and wait a few min for the light to go out, then the truck will be ready for use again.
 

SGaynor

Well-known member
Dec 6, 2006
7,148
162
52
Bristol, TN
You have got it right so far. You have to turn it to where the connectors that you are trying to release are closest to you with enough room to get hand or fingers in. If they have been connected for 15 yrs you may have to help them out with a fine tip flat head or a pick, but be very careful. Also if the foam pad is still under the column get rid of it, it might give you more room. Also fingers of steel help.

It is nearly impossible, but not absolutely impossible. Depressing the clips on the harness connectors in that tight space is a real bear sometimes. I found that after pulling the nut that holds it in place (on the top of the block), tilting it out as much as possible is the only reasonable way to access the back. Getting the connectors back on is every bit as much of a pain in the ass.

Yeah, that's what I was afraid of. Oh, well...time for some scraped knuckles.