Disassemble instrument cluster (2001)
 

Initially posted to help someone replace broken levers, but may be useful to others:

The early clusters, 1997 - 1999 (?) are a little different inside. 2004 was pretty much the same.
Start by removing the cluster from the car. The Pelican Parts article, 101 Projects book are good for that:
https://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Boxster_Tech/90-ELEC-996_Cluster/90-ELEC-996_Cluster.htm

Use extra care removing the connectors from the rear of the cluster. They can be very brittle. It may help to look in through the windshield as you unplug them.
Once the cluster is out, see these pictures for instructions:

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I had a nap, then lunch with my daughter. Now, here's the rest:
In case you need to replace an LCD, add custom gauge faces, or are just curious, here's how to go further.
Note: Working with circuit cards and micro-chips be cautious of static electricity built up on your clothes or hands.

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I'm not putting it back together. Figure it out yourself :eek:

Great DYI...Needs to be a sticky!

Now quit goofing off and get working on the 04!

I don't need to do this job, but kudos on the super clean write-up! :cheers:

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This is a great write up, thanks so much for taking the time.

I found it impossible to release the upper tab. This tab is situated so it is impossible to access. I'm not certain if you were able to open it with brute force or if you had some other trick. But in the spirit of paying it forward…

If you drill a small hole roughly 5 mm behind the edge you can then use a small screwdriver to push down on the tab directly and it will unlock. While drilling a hole in your instrument cluster is not sound very desirable, at least the hole is located in a spot you will not be able to see it once it's installed back in the vehicle, as it is covered by the shroud that sits above the overall cluster.

Hope this helps the next person :-)

Hey 78F350
You have a very nice collection of pictures that you post.
Very helpful to people.
I always view your posts to see the pictures!!!!!

Does the LCD screen hold any mileage information? If I replace my screen with a screen that came out of a spare broken cluster, will my current cluster still show the same mileage?

The LCD screen is just a display and does not hold information. The data is stored in a chip on the main board.

Excellent write-up, thanks for the time and effort :cheers: