Overview
A popular Ford Ranger upgrade is to install a center console from a 1995-2001 Ford Explorer. If you’re salvaging one from a donor vehicle this article will show you how to remove it.
Tools Required:
- 1/4″ ratchet
- Extensions (optional but very helpful)
- 8mm socket
- 10mm socket
- Magnetic pickup
- Wood block
- Hand sledge (or big hammer)
Steps / Procedure
Step 1 – Remove tissue box-coin holder.
Step 2 – Remove the cubbyhole compartment by pulling up and toward you.
Step 3 – Remove cup holder piece.
Step 4 – Remove (2) 8mm bolts. Loosen the 10mm connector retaining bolt. Disconnect this connector and route up under the heater controls to move it out of the way temporarily.
Step 5 – Remove (2) 8mm bolts in the console. These are threaded into the transmission hump.
The 1995-1996 console has a little light in the cup-holder section of the console that you will need to release to get it out (it’s just a little tab).
Step 6 – Use a wood block against the metal bracket and hit hard with a hammer toward rear until the console moves back about 2-inches. Note how the rear legs (or feet) go under metal tabs in the hump for reassembly.
To help a stubborn one get out, look really close at the bottom edge of the console. Toward the rear is a small, raised edge area with a cut out. You can get a screwdriver up in there and press upwards on the release tabs and then push the console back toward rear of the truck.
Installation
Installation is reverse of removal.
Related Articles
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Explorer Center Console Upgrade
Remove / Install 2002-2005 Ford Explorer Center Console
How To Remove The Center (Short) Console
Ford Explorer Full Length Console Install
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About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of TheRangerStation.com, the longest-running Ford Ranger resource online since 1999. With over 25 years of hands-on experience building and modifying Ford Rangers — including magazine-featured builds like Project Transformer — Jim has become one of the most trusted authorities in the Ford Ranger off-road and enthusiast space. In 2019, he was loaned a Ranger FX4 by Ford Motor Company to test and document across the TransAmerica Trail. Jim continues to inspire and guide Ranger owners around the world.