Instrument lights out

[Rudyy]

I have a 1981 300sd, The instrument panel lights do not work. I have checked the fuses and they seem fine. How do i take the panel out to check the bulbs? (also checked dimmer switch its fine.)

Thanks so much

[Mike D]

Twiddle the brightness rheostat knob a couple of hundred times. The problem is usually just corrosion on the internal spring.

[IVIuzzy]

if "twiddle-ing" doesnt work, you can use a coat hanger and bend the sides (mimicing the removal tools).

or you can remove the knee-bolster and push from behind. remove the speedo cable first, then the cluster will come the rest of the way out. remove all connections.

you will see the bulbs, mine were ok i had the same problem, i just jumped the rheostat(dimmer)

[PhantomCadillac]

http://benzguy.piczo.com/Addalittlecolortotheoldinstrumentpanel?cr=7&linkvar=000044
Here is a how to on removing and brightening the dash.

Good luck