Parking Brake Actuator Removal and Installation?

[BucknBronco]

On my 89 B2 the parking brake ratcheting mechanism has locked up to the point that I can't push it down all the way, or pull the release. The ratchet gears are rusted and all the PB blaster, WD40 and brake fluid in the world wont unlock it.

I have come to the point that I'm willing to undertake the replacement of it. If anyone has done the job, do I need to remove the dash? There should only be three fasteners holding it to the body, and is there anything I should watch out for?

Any information would be helpful, I'll most likely be getting a new mech from a junkyard, so I will have some practice pulling a dash out if thats what it takes. Unless it's possible to buy them new? Either way, some advice would be helpful and greatly appreciated.

 

[ericbphoto]

Doesn't see like you should have to pull the dash. It would be good if you could get it to release so there's less spring tension involved whole you're messing with it. I replaced one in an 88 F150 years ago - same basice design. I know I didn't pull the dash. Seems like it was an irritating project but not too bad.