Replacing the Axxera in a 2021 Ford E-450

[Bob Nodine]

We updated the Axxera in our 2022 Class C built on a 2021 Ford E-series cutaway van chassis. We chose to update the Thor installed double-DIN unit with an IYING 10" tiltable screen unit. This was not a straight forward project and we documented what we did in a PDF file so others might benefit from our experience. That PDF is attached here.

 

[GrandRover]

Nice details Bob! My 2023 Thor Axis 24.1 just had the Axxera replaced under warranty by my dealer, I am hoping that they did not need to tear things down that far.

 

[Bob Nodine]

Nice details Bob! My 2023 Thor Axis 24.1 just had the Axxera replaced under warranty by my dealer, I am hoping that they did not need to tear things down that far.

Mike,

There is a big difference between the E-series cutaway van that Class C's are built on and your Axis 24.1. I expect replacing the unit in your coach was straight forward.

 

[SGilbert]

The access to the radio in an Axis or Vegas is wide open through the removable top cover; making installation and wiring very easy.

 

[Suzanne Bon]

We updated the Axxera in our 2022 Class C built on a 2021 Ford E-series cutaway van chassis. We chose to update the Thor installed double-DIN unit with an IYING 10" tiltable screen unit. This was not a straight forward project and we documented what we did in a PDF file so others might benefit from our experience. That PDF is attached here.

Thanks Bob, great information! Axxera is junk for sure. We're still back in forth between extended warrenty people and our technician, but hope for resolution soon. ugh!

 

[thisoldman]

Great write-up, Bob! I have removed the dash in my 2019 (2018 Ford E-series cutaway van chassis) a few times and have found that there wasn't enough clearance around the steering wheel/column/shift lever to remove it without first lowering the steering column by removing the two nuts under the dash that hold it in place. I can't tell from the picture in your PDF whether you lowered your steering column but the description does not mention this step. Perhaps you have a higher tolerance for the risk of breaking the dash than I do.

 

[Bob Nodine]

Great write-up, Bob! I have removed the dash in my 2019 (2018 Ford E-series cutaway van chassis) a few times and have found that there wasn't enough clearance around the steering wheel/column/shift lever to remove it without first lowering the steering column by removing the two nuts under the dash that hold it in place. I can't tell from the picture in your PDF whether you lowered your steering column but the description does not mention this step. Perhaps you have a higher tolerance for the risk of breaking the dash than I do.

We did not need to change the position of the steering column to remove the dash face. That may have made the job easier but I don't know. Perhaps the 2021 and up models are different than you 2018 year. We did have to change the position of the gear shift lever.

 

[thisoldman]

We did not need to change the position of the steering column to remove the dash face. That may have made the job easier but I don't know. Perhaps the 2021 and up models are different than you 2018 year. We did have to change the position of the gear shift lever.

While the steering wheel and the instrument cluster were updated for the 2021 model year, the dash panel itself remained unchanged. I vaguely remember using your method the first time I removed the panel, but subsequently I found it to be much easier (and less anxiety inducing) to lower the steering column to provide added clearance around the shift lever. I will say that locating, removing, and replacing the nuts that hold the column in place brings with it its own set of challenges.