W126 Instrument Cluster removal

[tmundy]

Hi,

I need to remove the Instrument cluster from my W126 280se but am not sure the best way to proceed. I have a Haynes manual and it says there is a special tool that gets behind the cluster to release a catch. I do not have this tool and wondered if there is another way?

The reason for removing the cluster is that the Instrument light do not work.

Many thanks in advance for any help.

Tony Mundy

 

[pascal]

Tmundy,

They are just two hook type pieces. I have never used them myself, and have taken clusters out before. The safest method is to remove bottom panel and push out from behind. You must bear in mind the position of your steering wheel also (on some non-adjustable wheels people remove them first).

It is often best to disconnect battery first on cars with MB resetable SRS lights, as if this light is disconnected accidently with power on, it will need to reset at the dealer.

My advice here, would be to go gently, as broken glass may mean full replacement of cluster. You may also need to disconnect the speedo.

Pascal

 

[turnipsock]

I bought the tool from the dealer, you get a pair of hooks with handles for about £10. They are marked with a line to let you know when you have gone in far enough.

The mechanic at the dealership also said to spray the clips with WD40 first and make sure there is enough slack in the speedo cable.

 

[tmundy]

Thanks for the advise. In the end I pushed the console out from behind, no problem.

Once again, thanks.

 

[PeterJ]

Hi,

I need to do the same, but I´m not sure what you mean push it out from behind? What do you have to take off to do this.

Cheers

 

[tom7035]

Unclip the speedo cable at the foot of the steering column to give you some 'slack'.