The top panel can only be removed when the mother board is not secured.

There are two additional screws located on the top rail. Remove these to fully remove the buttons and top rail.

There are two screws holding down the joystick base that must be removed. (Be careful of the ribbon cable—it stays connected!)

Hold the top panel with your fingers and pull away from the device to remove it.

The top panel should come off easily, with very little force applied.