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Subject: Finally replaced my ashtray assembly today Author: jcarey (moderator) : member since January, 2004 : 2373 posts Posted on: 2007-01-15 19:03:01

I bought a used one on Ebay at least a year ago, but since I have the day off today I thought I'd give it a try. Refreshed my memmory on www.e38.org on how to remove the wood console trim to get ready and I realized that there is a much less complicated way to get the wood trim off - so I wanted to pass this along.

DavidC's steps tell you to remove the Wood shifter but this is not necessary. Instead, to get at the two screws under the shifter trim piece, first pull up on the rear of the plastic shifter trim panel to release the spring clips, then lift up and back to release the clips at the front. (install in reverse).

With the shifter trim popped out, you can access the philips screws on either side of the opening near the front of the console wood panel.

Remove the screws at the rear of the wood panel as shown in David's instructions and then while lifting the wood panel, slip the entire shifter trim panel through the opening and remove the electrical connections under the panel to remove it.

Saves time and trouble in trying to remvoe the shifter knob which is hard and dangerous at times...

Bettie's new ash tray assembly now moves up and down as intended without rubbing, jamming or scratching the wood cover now, - Its these little things that can make me happy. :-)

John

Bettie is my Jet Black '98 740iL currently @ 92K miles

• Finally replaced my ashtray assembly today (url) - jcarey 2007-01-15 19:03:01 (4965 views)
  • Thanks for the new info as I have to do that sometime. (nt) - Roy In GA 2007-01-15 23:10:17 (232 views)