How do I get the radio out?
 

1983 300SD. I am trying to find the flasher / directional. I want to look behind the console but I cannot get the radio out. Do I need a special tool for the clips underneath the radio? If so do I buy them or can I make them?

in the 240 the relayis under the hazered swich

hope that helps

DP,
Once you have the ashtray and ashtray carriage out, reach in the hole and apply gentle pressure to the back of the radio. It should slide right out at you with minimal effort. If I remember correctly the connector on the back are socket specific so it is hard to screw up the reattachment.

Location: behind the Speedometer.
 

The flasher / directional relay is behind the Speedometer on W126.
FastLane
Part number P2066-11838
Turn Signal Relay $36.29
http://catalog.eautopartscatalog.com/mercedesshop/wizard.jsp?partner=mercedesshop&year=1983&make=MB&model=300-SD-002&category=P&part=Turn+Signal+Relay
Have a great day.

Thank you Whunter. One more question. I slid out the guages but I cannot get them past the steering wheel to get full access. Where exactly is the flasher and should I or could I access it from underneath?

Does the radio come out the same way for a '83 240D? I've been thinking about a Pioneer XM ready upgrade.

Sorry; not possible from under dash.
 

It is located just to the right of center of the Speedometer on W126, almost against the bulkhead.
It is a major PIA to locate, and the Speedometer must come out.
Of all possible positions, there is only one position where the Speedometer will come out.
I fought with my Speedometer assembly for half an hour to get it out without damage.
Have a great day.
whunter

I finally did it. The speedometer unit came out easily this time because I accidently had the steering wheel in the right position. The lage gap straight up. I came out nice with a little twist. The flasher was behind a group of wires in the place you had indicated. Thank you it works great.

I also would still like to know about the radio removal. It does not want to come out. Are there special tools I need?

Yes; special tools needed.
 

Mercedes-Benz 963 589 01 05 00 Becker Radio removal tools, also for some A/C control panels , and instrument cluster on 2002 S class, etc. $ 8.99

http://www.samstagsales.com/mercedes.htm#factory

Have a great day.

Thank you I will order them today. Dennis

If your radio is still the Becker, with the ashtray out, there are two small pull-down metal tabs on the bottom of the mounting box. Pull them down and the radio will slide forward. Hope this helps.

Is that the same for my 240D? That would be great.:D

As I use to have an 83 240D RIP (sniff, sniff), the answer is yes. No special tools needed.

Sorry for your loss. :( However great news for me. :D

Radio removal tools
 

I use special tools to make the job faster and easier for me.
It is possible to make your own tools or R&R without a special tool.
As a working master mechanic, I must look at possible damage, speed and cost benefit.
The following graphic shows the two types of special radio removal tools that I use most.
The top one is thin sheet metal.
The bottom one is round rod with bulbs at the end.