The worst people to follow into a dashboard are radio fitters; alarm/immobiliser fitters; plumbers.
I would consider cutting wires as a LAST resort. Big plus on corrosion though - be very aware of that.

__________________
Good - Fast - Cheap: Pick any two.
Current:
E23 735i; E30 318i; E32 735iL; E38 735iL; R50 Cooper; R55 Cooper Clubman.
Previous:
E21 318i; E32 735iL; E34 535i; E38 730iL; E53 4.4i