Rattle behind cluster when going over bumps - how to remove cluster trim?

[sheervelocity]

2010 Lincoln MKZ AWD

 

Very aggravating rattle whenever I drive over bumps like traintracks or roads under construction, directly behind the cluster in the dash. I have read it is most likely the HVAC ducting. 

 

I have the top two bolts out from the cluster as pictured, but I don't want to yank it out and don't have a manual. Are there more screws behind the vents? I have read about popping them off with flathead, but once again I'm not going to do it without being sure. All the guides were for different years.

 

Thanks in advance - the cluster itself should be easy to remove, just few scews and connector - i just don't want to damage the dash and trim

[drolds1]

Unfortunately, according to the manual, it's quite a bit more complicated than that.  In order to remove the cluster the instrument cluster finish panel has to be removed and that requires, among other things, removal of the steering wheel:

 

 

Removal

NOTE: If installing a new Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC), all vehicle keys are erased during the parameter reset procedure. Verify at least 2 of the vehicle keys are available prior to carrying out this procedure.
 

1. If installing a new IPC, upload the module configuration to the scan tool. For additional information, refer to Module Configuration See: Powertrain Management\Computers and Control Systems\Information Bus\Testing and Inspection\Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview, Programmable Module Installation (PMI).
2. Remove the IPC finish panel. For additional information, refer to Instrument Panel and Console See: Service and Repair.
3. Remove the 3 screws and the IPC.

• • Disconnect the electrical connector.

 

 

Instrument Cluster Finish Panel - MKZ

Removal and Installation
 

1. Release the 2 instrument cluster finish panel screws covers and remove the 2 instrument cluster finish panel screws.
2. Remove the steering wheel. For additional information, refer to Steering Column See: Steering and Suspension\Steering\Steering Wheel\Service and Repair\Steering Wheel.
3. Remove the multifunction switch. For additional information, refer to Steering Column Switches See: Steering and Suspension\Steering\Steering Column\Service and Repair\Steering Column Multifunction Switch.
4. Remove the LH instrument panel finish panel.

• • Pull the LH instrument panel finish panel toward the rear of the vehicle to release the retaining clips.

5. Remove the instrument cluster finish panel.

• • Pull the instrument cluster finish panel toward the rear of the vehicle to release the retaining clips.

6. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

• • If replacing the instrument cluster finish panel, remove the 2 register screws and transfer the register.
  • Make sure to align the LH instrument panel finish panel retaining clips to the retaining clip holes in the instrument panel.

[4N1M4L]

search function for the WIN! i have this same problem. Wonder if OP ever fixed his?