www.iFourWinns.com

Has anyone had to gain access to the back of the instrument panel ? I think I have a bad connection and was wondering how big a deal it was and any other advice . thanks , keith.

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1998 VISTA 258

I had a '99 2 boats ago, the instrument panel pull straight out. Don't remember how the clips are exactly. The first time i removed the compass and pushed from the back of it.

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Jeff

'14 Cruisers 380 Express "Simon Sez"
Merc 8.2 Mag MPI 380
DTS B3X, (x2) Axius Premier


(SOLD)
'08 V318
Merc 350 Mag MPI 300
DTS Seacore, B3 (x2)

If my 298 is set up similiar to your 258 then read on, if not, disregard, but my 298 has screws going around the fake wood instrument panel. remove the screws and it should pop out. a couple of things to note, the panel as it goes around the bottom of the steering wheel is narrow so be careful with that so it doesnt twist. Also, my VHF is installed and actually uses the compression screws (sorry dont know what else to call them but they act like a clamp sandwiching the panel). the VHF is heavy so as you start loosening the screws the heavy part may drop suddenly, my advise is to loosen the side that the VHF is on and actually remove the VHF (if you VHF is not mounted in the instrument panel then disregard). other then that its a snap, took me about 10 minutes to remove. there was actually alot of space there to work. to get a good view there are cup holders in the top of the dashboard that you can pop out and put your hand into. I was able to change out my VHF, wire in a new antenna, wire in a new stereo remote. and repair a faulty switch.

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1999 298 Vista [color=#FF0000]Sold!!!
twin Volvo 5.7GXI

Woody: Pour you a beer, Mr. Peterson?
Norm: Alright, but stop me at one...make that one-thirty

I have a 98 258 Vista and have had to get behind the instrument panel as well. It was a year or more ago but this is what I remember. I removed the compass and then reached into the back of the panel. There are nylon nuts in each corner (total of 4) that I was able to turn with my fingers to remove. I was then able to carefully remove the panel by angling it sideways. The wires will keep you from fully removing the panel.

Hope that helps.

thanks for the advice guys . keith

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1998 VISTA 258