How to Remove a 1976 Corvette Clock

The mechanical clock often fails in C3 Corvettes. You can repair the original clock or replace it with a newer quartz-movement clock that looks just like the original. These clocks are available from most Corvette parts suppliers. Consider replacing the console illumination bulbs if they are the original ones while you have the cluster out. Make sure to check the gauge lenses and polish or replace them if they are scratched to enhance the look of your interior.

• 1

  Open the battery compartment behind the driver's seat. Disconnect the negative battery cable with a small open-end wrench.

• 2

  Remove the screws that hold the right lower dash panel to the upper dash and side frame with a Phillips screwdriver. There are three screws at the top and two holding the right side. Remove the two screws holding the right side of the gauge cluster to the right dash panel.

• 3

  Gently pull the dash panel toward you and remove it.

• 4

  Remove the two screws connecting the housing that holds the air vents and wiper switch assembly to the upper dash. Remove the two screws under the vents holding the housing to the center gauge bezel. Unplug the wiring harness going to the switch and remove the assembly from the center gauge cluster.

• 5

  Remove the screw holding the console extension panel. This panel is located on the right sided of the console next to the side of the radio.

• 6

  Place a cloth or a towel over the shift console plate to prevent damage. Pull off the radio knobs and remove the radio shaft retaining nuts and washers with needle-nose pliers. Remove the 7/16-inch nut from the stud holding the bezel to the lower bracket just under the radio through the opening from the console extension panel you removed.

• 7

  Remove the two screws on the left side of the center cluster that connect it to the left lower-side dash panel with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the center bezel toward you enough to access the wiring harness to the center gauge cluster. Unplug the wiring connections from the gauges.

• 8

  Gently pull the gauge cluster away from the dash and place it on a flat work surface.

• 9

  Remove the clock from the gauge housing with a nut driver.