'00 Legacy Removing the ignition surround

[Hollow]

Can someone tell me if there is an easy to remove and replace the ignition surround?

 

Thieves replaced my ignition and broke the surround. I've ordered the new parts but cant seem to get the old top surround off due to some long plastic screw attachments (see photo). I've used the steering wheel release but there still isn't enough room to pull it out. I could cut them off but then I imagine I'll have the same trouble getting the new one on. Hmmmm.

 

Thanks for any help!

 

Edited February 6, 2013 by Hollow
adding extra information

[CoupedUpSubie]

That is exactly what is stopping it. Can you not remove the screw for some reason? With the steering wheel dropped all the way down it should come off and the new one go on fairly easy. Might take a bit of effort, it does on my impreza.

[CNY_Dave]

Had mine on my '03 off not long ago so I could modify the wiper switch (stop the wipers from auto-wiping when using the washer).

 

It's the one or 2 screws that go in from the bottom, then a snap or two.

 

The top is harder to get off, not sure if you have to unbolt the column and drop it just a little or not (left mine loose and in place).

[Hollow]

I've taken the screws out, it's just the two long plastic poles that are blocking is from coming out. The steering wheel column didn't seem to want to go down enough to get it out either. Hmmm

[Hollow]

In the end I ended up unbolting the column which worked fine. Thanks for your help!