w124 instrument cluster removal

[Hibbo]

Need to take mine out to sort an erratic temp gauge, can it be done without taking the steering wheel off?

It's easy enough (with the wheel in place) on the w123, also is the w124 oil pressure gauge direct or indirect reading (ie does it have an oil pipe going to it like the w123 or is it electrical)?

I know there are plenty of w124 experts on here so thanks in advance!

 

[turnipsock]

The instrument cluster just pops out, it's held in by some clips. You need to get in between the pod and the rest of the dash. If you go to a dealer, they will pop it out for you for free and then you see how it's done.

There is a special tool that you can get from the dealer that is worth getting...about £10.

Be careful not to stretch the speedo cable.

 

[television]

I have the feeling that yours is electric sensor driven. If you look on
http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb0.asp?TP=1

and go to engine and then sensors you will have the answer.
In genral the sensors give more problems than the instrument cluster. this could be checked by removing the lead from the sensor and grouding the lead via a say 2.2k Ω ressistor if the gauge is then stable,its the sensor, if it still fluctuates then it is the gauge,and these are a plug in unit where the contacts could need tightening or cleaning, or the printed circuit track could be O/C

Malcolm

 

[Silver Arrow]

I'm with Malcolm:
My 124 coupe temperature gauge plays up. I replaced the sensor and then cleaned up the contacts. If I don't use it in a while, and the weather is a bit damp, it sometimes sulks, then decides to work anyway. I now leave a dehumidifier in its garage.

 

[Hibbo]

I have the feeling that yours is electric sensor driven. If you look on
http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb0.asp?TP=1

and go to engine and then sensors you will have the answer.
In genral the sensors give more problems than the instrument cluster. this could be checked by removing the lead from the sensor and grouding the lead via a say 2.2k Ω ressistor if the gauge is then stable,its the sensor, if it still fluctuates then it is the gauge,and these are a plug in unit where the contacts could need tightening or cleaning, or the printed circuit track could be O/C

Malcolm

Thanks for the replies, Malcolm I am into two minds about the temp gauge problem; on on hand I think it's most likely the guage as it (seems to) drop back to normal when tapped, but on the other hand it's more likely to be the sender as it doesn't start doing it till the engine's up to temperature.
I used a variable resistor to diagnose it on my w123, but I think the sender is buried under the HUGE ****** intake manifold on the w124 - as are most things (viva la 617!)

Turnip, do the clips have to be relased using the tool, or can the cluster just be pushed out from behind (with the kick panel removed) like the w123?

Thanks again!