alien dash implant

Well, I just replaced one last week. It definitely did not have room to be removed or installed with the dash screwed in place. The structure supporting the column was only about 1/4-1/2" away. Less than the length of the pins. I disconnected the battery, unplugged the wiper switch, released the speedo cable, lowered the column (all bolts top and bottom), removed the screws and pulled the cluster forward. Necessary? Maybe not. Easier? In my opinion, yes. Laying into the car upside down is very inconvenient!