2004 XLT Odometer glass question

[indcolts18288]

The plastic/glass cover that goes over all the gauges like odometer, speedometer, etc has some type of film on it on the inside. Maybe due to some kind of moisture? How can I remove the plastic so I can clean it, it's bugging the crap outta me. Thanks!

 

[GAINMOB]

pics so we have a visual of the prob

 

[indcolts18288]

pics so we have a visual of the prob

Ok will get some on there this afternoon

 

[indcolts18288]

Pic

 

[indcolts18288]

If I unscrew the two screws on that part of the dash shouldn't I be able to get the plastic off to clean the inside?

 

[GAINMOB]

maybe...you'll have access to the cluster for sure...could it be stained from some type of acid or something of that nature...that would bug me too...

 

[indcolts18288]

maybe...you'll have access to the cluster for sure...could it be stained from some type of acid or something of that nature...that would bug me too...

Not sure. Guess I will try and get to it and if I can't I'll take it to Ford to have it replaced. Can't imagine it costing that much. It's just annoying. I remember when I was in high school I had a Beretta Z-26 and it did the same thing and I can't remember why as that was about 13yrs ago. If it warms up this weekend I'll get into it and let you know how it went in case anyone else runs into this in the future.

 

[tbird610]

WOW. That would drive me crazy as well. Let us know how you fixed it please.

 

[indcolts18288]

I bought some Mcguires Plastic X and it didn't work. URGH! Read somewhere to try some vinegar and water. I really think it's on the inside but I'm iffy on removing the dash cluster. Maybe I can take it to FORD and they can just replace the plastic at a decent price.

 

[05kingranch]

HI, I'm curious if you figured out how to solve this problem and if not, what Ford charged to replace the glass. My 05 looks exactly like your pictures and it drives me crazy. Thanks in advance

 

[Diamondtron24]

You can remove the plastic but it requires you to remove the instrument cluster. (At least get access to it.) It's sort of a PITA to get into as there are like 6 screws you have to remove, and that's after you remove the dash plastic surrounding it. One of them is behind headlight switch so that must be removed too.
I think you are right in that it looks like it's an inside stain. You may remove the plastic from the cluster and still find that you can't clean it off. I would consider looking at a junker for replacement cover. They may make you buy the whole cluster though.