Radio removal -- won't budge!

I am trying to get the radio out of my 1995 C220 to see what model it is so that I can obtain a new LCD readout. I don't have the factory tool but found a two long, stiff pieces of metal that fit the slots at the lower corners of the radio perfectly. Alas, I can't get the thing to budge!

Can someone explain what I am doing wrong? Please do so conceptually as I believe that I need to be able to picture what is going on back there in order to get it to work.

Thank you.

Jody Hart

WITHOUT THE FACTORY "KEYS", THE SPRING TABS THAT SECURE THE RADIO TO THE CENTER CONSOLE CANNOT BE DISENGAGED FROM THE SIDES.

[96C220]

The keys are only $1.78 from your dealer, mine had them in stock. Trust me, you can get the radio out without them, but u will mangle it. If u need a new radio, let me know I have one sitting here that I took out of my C220.
Best wishes and take care,
George Androulakis

[Gilly]

Jody:
An MB dealer would probably remove the radio for free. Maybe you can look and see how they work. It'd be a one in a million shot on getting anything to release the radio besides the radio keys, plus you need to release both sides. I'm sure the dealer would order a pair of keys for you in case you plan on removing the radio alot. It would be a special tool order, but I'm sure they are cheap.
Gilly

[wjm]

Jody,

Why get the LEDs replaced? These radios go on EBAY all the time for a reasonable price. You either have the AL-1492 (Alpine) or the BE-1492 (Becker).

Willy

Thanks to all of you for your replies.

The reason that I wanted to replace the LCD is that I thought it would be cheaper than replaceing the whold unit. Also, on Alpine's website I found a link to their parts distributor. On other models, the readout was only approx. $17.00 and I figured I'd replace it myself.

However, if the model number Willy gave is correct, they don't list parts for it. So, I shall call them Monday morning to confirm that I can't buy it and replace it myself and, as suggested, I shall look on E-Bay and see what they are going for.

Thank you.

Jody Hart