Help! Center console molding (moulding) removal

[rch105]

;help

I have a bad electrical connection that a previous owner made after installing an XM radio. From what I can see/trace, the connection is hiding under the center console. Apparently the owner removed the auto accessory 12v outlet and has the XM contol head hiding under the center pad. Since I don't care to break the molding that surrounds the radio/HVAC/ash receiver/shift lever/cup holder, can anyone guide me through this and tell me what to expect and where to start? I'm tired of hitting a bump (PA's is the pothole capital of the world) and having the radio go off, then come back on at the next bump! Thanks in advance!!!
Rick
;help

 

[BigJimZ16]

To get the console access that you need is actually quite simple:
1. Open the console lid and pop out the half moon control panel (Traction Control) with a small screw driver at the lip along the front edge of the console lid;
2. Remove the two oval covers at the back of the console lid;
note - you will have exposed 4 10mm nuts
3. Remove the 4 10mm nuts;
4. Lift the console up and pull it to the rear to clear the studs;

This should give you complete access to the plug.

Good luck

I just had my Z16 apart a couple of weeks ago to install the Hurst Shifter.

 

[rch105]

Success

Hey BigJim,

Thanks for the info. I was able to get to my project this weekend and it was a complete success. What a butcher job on the wiring. To get power to the unit someone took a cigarette plug adapter cord, spliced some wires in by wrapping them around the male part, then taped them in place. No wonder I had a bad connection. I completely redid the wiring and actually eliminated some of the mess. It's working great and I thank you for your info! Remember to save the !!!

 

[BigJimZ16]

You're very welcome. Glad I could help, that's what we do best on this forum. When I joined last fall, it was because I had a problem. I asked a question and got THE answer (thanks again Hib). So anything I can do with my limited Corvette experiance, I do! About your electrical problem, there are some real hackers out there abusing our beloved Corvettes in ways one can only shudder to imagine. When I worked at a Chevy store in the middle 70s it was no different. Of course when they screw it up past their ability to fix it with baling wire and Duct tape they usually bring it back to the dealer who has to put it all back together!!
Enjoy your vette and don't forget to wave!!!

By the way, the Poconos aren't that far from my roots in the Garden State. The Jersey Shore was a great place to be from...