W124 Folding Armrest w/console

[Bob338]

The folding armrest on my seat has one broken stop of the two on the hinge. The stops prevent the lid from flopping all the way into the back seat. I need to replace the stop, which I've ordered, part #124 973 02 26. In order to replace it the plastic upper and lower liners in the armrest must be removed for access to the pin which holds the stop. I've removed all the screws from both top and bottom. The bottom comes out easily but the top does not, and that's where I need access to replace the broken stop.

There is no latch that I can find. I can wedge the front and the rear out slightly but obviously the center recessed area is held firmly to the top. Any more force and the plastic will crack. There is obviously something holding the center portion down.

Can someone give me a clue as to how to remove this from the leather top for access to the hinge area in the rear?

[Bob338]

No help here, but managed to make the changeover easily by wedging the plastic and the top apart. You can't see with the limited space but there is an opening that enables removal of the old broken one, by just gently pushing forward. It goes down and lifts out easily. Replacement is reverse and quite simple, it just can't be seen before making the effort.

[Jeremy5848]

I have exactly the same problem but in addition, I want to dye the leather, which will be a lot easier if I can get the armrest completely apart. In addition to the obvious screws, the top is held together by several clips. If I pry too hard, Bob's concern about cracking the plastic may come true. Has anyone ever gotten these clips to release?

Jeremy

[rog-o]

There are 2 clips on each side. I warmed mine with a hair dryer and started prying. Luckily I didn't break anything.

Roger