R12 radio connector removal

[johnlt]

I've removed them a dozen times and it never gets any easier. I know how but it is always very difficult and in fact I've broken the retaining clip on a couple of them. Does anyone have any secret method to doing it?

[Buckster]

I have found that if I hold the panel in my left hand/arm then grasp the wire to the radio plug with the center, ring and little fingers of my right hand. Then I squeeze the clips on each side of the connector with my thumb and index finger. Then I push down on the connector, squeezing the clips then pull up on the cable using my other three fingers. If the connector does not start to move immediately, I push down again resqueezing the clips. The secret is to get the clips to release before pulling. If there is pulling pressure on the clips, they will not release.

Good luck... Buck

[johnlt]

I cheated this time by just rigging up a way to "hang" the whole side panel up near the dash with all wires attached. I can then remove the large side panel and do my valve adjust. Another way I've done it was to remove the radio panel from the side panel (4 screws) and just leave the radio panel hanging. I'll try the "pushing" next time. It makes sense so maybe it will work easier. thanks