Panel under the steering column

[xdeadeye1]

i was looking to find fuses / relays,, I tried to pry that panel from under the steering column down. I didnt realize it was attached at the bottom. I got 2 screws out of it but it seems like its still attached.

My problem is i cant get it back on doing what i did to pull it off.. its stuck,, so i really need to detatch the lower part of that panel. Any ideas,, experience with this thing.?
I think the security system light is mounted there,, but something else is keeping it taught .
This is the panel closes to your knees..
Thanks for any help here.

 

[DILLARD000]

Year+Model+Engine specs in your signature+profile would really encourage answers;
most will not dig thru your posts to decipher what you've got; which is a 2003 ExST.
For removing\installing the knee panel below the SteeringColumn.
there is a sequence that should be followed & reversed.
Also, this panel is unnecessarily "entangled" with HoodReleaseHandle;
I've trimmed my panel, so the Handle does not need to be unbolted; otherwise it has to be unbolted also.
Here's a video with good detail (1998~2003 Rangers & ExSTs have the same dash).

 

[Todd Z]

hood release has to be removed too..

 

[xdeadeye1]

Yes this was my hold up.. Just didnt know to look under that thing. Its now fixed happy to say. New cruise buttons put on the steering wheel too.