Screw removal/size? Instrument cluster

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Apr 3, 2023 | 11:21 AM

jimisbell

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Screw removal/size? Instrument cluster

I am trying to remove the instrument cluster on my 2004 LS 430. I have removed the lower two panels over the gauge dimmer and whatever is on the right side. But I cannot see well enough to figure out what the heads are on the upper twp screws are on the bezel. I thought they were Philips but I have tried a #2 Philips and a large jewlers Philips and neither seem to "set" Its driving me nuts because I cant see if it is actually a Philips and I dont know if its a 1/2 turn snap or a multi turn screw and the videos dot seem to care to show the screw after they pull it out!
Need answers fast as weather is deteriorating!

Apr 4, 2023 | 04:39 AM

sha4000

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Zoom in and take a pic with your cellphone.

Apr 4, 2023 | 06:47 AM

YannG

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From: GA

its a philips! I'll try to post a picture up

Apr 4, 2023 | 08:10 AM

jimisbell

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From: Texas

Quote:

Originally Posted by sha4000

Zoom in and take a pic with your cellphone.

Great idea! Thinking outside the box!

Apr 4, 2023 | 05:40 PM

911LE

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From: Arizona

They, like all the other "Phillips" screws on the car are JIS, not Phillips. That's why they never seat correctly. Wrong tool.

Apr 4, 2023 | 05:51 PM

jimisbell

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From: Texas

Quote:

Originally Posted by 911LE

They, like all the other "Phillips" screws on the car are JIS, not Phillips. That's why they never seat correctly. Wrong tool.

OK, where do I get the right tool? It does seem that the slots are too narrow to let the philips blade slide in.

Apr 5, 2023 | 01:47 PM

jimisbell

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From: Texas

I did the research and JIS stands for "Japanese Inscrutable Screw"....No, not really, its Japanese Industrial Standard. But it was Japanese modification of the Philips that had just recently been invented. Probably as a way around patent rights, though it does offer some advantages....that may not be needed however. I will be replacing all I come across with Philips because I am NOT the only person that works on my car!!! Others may screw them up....pun intended....