Is it possible to change headlight switch without removing cluster?

[RSI700VIPER]

I need to replace my brand new, "Chrysler Licensed" headlight vacuum switch.  The moment I first started the car, I could hear the vacuum sucking sound from behind the dash.  Moved switch is all positions but nothing.  Hoses are properly hooked up with correct metal manifold retainer.  I was warned not to but a repop switch but I figured if it was licensed by Chrysler, how bad could it be right?  Wrong     
Should have bought a decent used one.  Anyway, I took great paint to install the cluster without scratching anything and I don't want to do that again.  Is it possible to climb up under there and unbolt the switch from the back?

[timmycharger]

Ive done it, it sucks! If I remember correctly, I removed the AC vent and pushed the hose out of the way in order to get access.  I used a light, a small hand held welding mirror and a ratcheting screwdriver type tool. Huge pain in the ass since I am not 22 yrs old anymore and can't bend in ways I used to!!

[comet_666]

I don't have AC or a heater box or anything under my dash and it was still a massive pain in the ass.

[70gtx440dana]

Just lay flat on your back with a good light. You will see it. Disconnect vacuum and electrical connectors....then remove the two screws. You will be a bit sore when your done....but it is doable.

[tan top]

all what the other guys say !  

when i first got my charger ! doing stuff like that , was no biggie  up side down head resting on or by brake pedal legs over the driver seat    , no problems bending etc  i was 18 years old then , it is a major PIA  doing anything like that with the cluster in place though  

IMO  would not do /  i can not  do it that way / that position now   ,
in fact ever since the nut & bolt rebuild , any time need to do stuff behind the  instrument cluster, i find it quicker easier to just take it out !  also i always remove seat & or  lower steering column first or remove it . find it much easier.  i once tried it the ole way i use to  when i was 18 ,  i got cramp in calf muscle , it was not good sight  

[birdsandbees]

Find a petite 25 year old woman and offer to hold the light for her 

[moparchris]

One thing that makes it easier on old backs is to remove the drivers bucket seat.  It does help the angle of your back and you don't have to worry about scratching the column or dash bezel.

[RSI700VIPER]

Good points, all    I'm 58 and flexibility is fair at best.  As for the aches and pain, Advil and a martini chaser will take care or that.  Yanking a seat is 4 bolts so that would definitely help with access.  From the feedback, it sounds like it can be done so I will give it a shot, but will wait until I have the replacement switch in hand.  That way I'm only up in there once.     

[timmycharger]

Forgot about removing the seat, definitely did that!!

[XH29N0G]

Removing the seat is a good idea.  Last time I wedged myself under the dash I got stuck.  Yelled for help from my wife who was in some other part of the house out of earshot. None arrived.  So I had to figure out how to hoist my 53 y.o (at the time) body out without dislocating anything.  Next time I'll remove the seat or drop the dash with a towel on the column.   

I have been holding off on saying anything because I work with vacuum systems and giant sucking sounds are bad news.   

[469 runner]

I had an original vacuum switch, but the reproduction headlight rocker switch was crap.  The arm to move the vacuum switch was not long enough.  Kept disengaging itself.  Why can't repro. stuff be done right?  Well, that is a topic in and of itself.  I have A/C also.  I wound up pulling the whole cluster out.  Took my time, wrapped the steering column, I think I lowered the column too, etc..  It worked out fine.  Not the easiest to do.