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Access to overdrive solenoid and switch

nevets

Jedi Knight
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Is there any way to access the solenoid and switch without removing the 'doghouse'? I would really like to avoid taking apart all the carpet and trim. What about just peeling back the carpet and cutting an opening in the tunnel with a Dremel tool (then resealing it)? See attached sketch.
 

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Is your carpeting all glued down? My tunnel just came right out, and your solution appears a lot more invasive than just removing the tunnel with 8(?) screws.
 
Thanks for the reply PHulst. The carpet is not glued to the tunnel, but the tunnel carpet is trimmed into the firewall carpeting, plus there is the issue of the handbrake.
I removed the tunnel screws and the thing doesn't budge. I'm wondering if the PO cemented the tunnel in place.
 
You may also have to adjust the lever on the right side of the transmission if you replace the solenoid. Removing the tunnel cover is not a big job and will provide unlimited access to the areas you need. If you ever need to replace the speedometer cable or angle drive, you'll need access too.
 
Thanks for the reply PHulst. The carpet is not glued to the tunnel, but the tunnel carpet is trimmed into the firewall carpeting, plus there is the issue of the handbrake.
I removed the tunnel screws and the thing doesn't budge. I'm wondering if the PO cemented the tunnel in place.
There are screws on the vertical surface of the tunnel cover that screw into the bell housing cover. Did you find and remove those?

Once all the screws are removed, you can maneuver the tunnel cover and handbrake until you can take off the cover.

If it is stuck in place, pry it up -- it has to come off.
 
Thanks for the comments. I can see why it is a good idea to just remove the cover. No I have not yet removed the screws from the bell housing cover, which could be part of the problem...I'll have another go at it.
 
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