Removing all the non-essential items from the interior of the car was yesterday’s big task. It was surprisingly more difficult than expected. I probably spent about 4-6 hours gutting the interior.
The hardest part of all was removing the dash. There are many bolts and wiring harnesses to undo, airbags to deactivate, and instrument panels to remove. These all add up to make it a tedious process. In my case, there was also the addition of an aftermarket alarm wired into the system to complicate the removal picture even more.
Interior with Dash Still In
During the gutting process, I also had a major battle with one of the seat mounting bolts. This one particular bolt refused to give way for: a) an impact wrench, b) an impact driver, and c) bolt removal kit. I finally got it out with some liquid wrench and drilling. I probably should have started with the liquid wrench. But this is one of those lessons that is learned the hard way. This project is full of these opportunities.
There is no question that patience is required during dash removal and mine was finally rewarded with a undamaged dash sitting alongside the car and an interior ready to be de-grimed.
Dash, Carpet, and Seats Removed
Once the dash was out, then it was time to put it back in! Normally, this wouldn’t be done until the roll cage is installed. But I’ve got to drive mine to the installer, so I did a re-install. It went back in much more easily than it came out.
Dash Re-installed
Anyone doing this project themselves would be advised to: a) be very patient, b) thoroughly review the relevant sections from the Mazda Miata Workshop Manual. The manual isn’t perfect and isn’t’ always as detailed as I’d like; however, it generally covers the main points and sequences for removal/installation.
