removal of dash or console panels
 

Has anyone had experience in removal of the panel surrounding the center console on a 2004 Freestar?

I have removed the panels directly under the steering column and that is no problem if you are gentle. After removing the three small bolts from the bottom, the outer panel snaps off by pulling on the top of the panel with a little assist from a long screwdriver to pry the clips out. Then tip the panel down and lift it out of the slots at the bottom.
I am reluctant to start pulling on other panels without knowing what holds them in. Those snap on panels aren't cheap if you break the clips off of them.

I stumbled onto my answer almost immediately after posting. My thanks again to "Common Sense" who is always right there when he is able to help.