Shifter Console Lighting - Page 3 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

VegStew · #31 11-29-2008, 10:51 AM

Thayer
The CCU has 4 of its own lights. Sounds like 2 of yours are out. The Fan and temp wheel have there own lights and the push button has 2 lights. Not sure if the shifter has its own light or if it shares with the other fiber optic lights on the console. I had no shifter lights till i replaced my shifter bushings. Everything was really dirty down there. After i cleaned it all up, i could See the Light...years of spilled coffee im sure.

tobybul · #32 11-30-2008, 10:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thayer

ok, Help

My shifter lights are out and the buttons on the ccu are out but the temp wheel and fan buttons are not out.

Diagnosis: does the fiber optic spider run the shifter and the center ccu button lights? or are they two seperate bulbs that need replacing?

Muchas Gracias

At least on the 300D, the shifter has its own bulb. Its easy to replace. I believe i showed a pic of it in this thread.

thayer · #33 12-08-2008, 09:58 AM

Ok, on my w126, there is a green and white christmas light wire that carries all the lights. It travels from the temp wheel, to the left button light, back to the Fiber optic spider, then to the right ccu button, then to the fan buttons. They all take the same bulbs. Because I replaced all of them, you can't find the bulbs in surry county any more. They are all at my house, and now in my car. Which does now very dimly, light all the buttons.

My hands are very scratched up now. but my lights work.

The bulb is an Osram Sylvania 2721, and it's at regular auto parts stores.

I would like to replace the fiber optic bulb with something brighter that won't melt the plastic. Any ideas?

tobybul · #34 12-08-2008, 11:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thayer

The bulb is an Osram Sylvania 2721, and it's at regular auto parts stores.

I would like to replace the fiber optic bulb with something brighter that won't melt the plastic. Any ideas?

I have heard some folks use LED bulbs for many of the console and cluster lights... but have always wondered if they are a direct fit. I have not tried it.

Jeremy5848 · #35 12-08-2008, 12:47 PM

I suspect that LED plug-and-play replacements have been developed for modern cars but probably not for our old Benzes. You might have to roll your own. Wouldn't be terribly hard, just a lot of tedious soldering in a confined space on small wires close to things easily burned by a hot iron.

thayer · #36 12-08-2008, 02:36 PM

I can't imagine trying to solder something into the octopus. I could barely get my finger back there to push the stock bulb into place. My two year old might be able to get her hand back there, but I don't trust her with my iron

toomany MBZ · #37 12-09-2008, 06:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JimmyL

You might can get to it if you remove the CCU unit I think.....

I think so too. That bulb is behind it. It takes much patience to line all the fibers to the buttons, but replacing the bulb itself may not be a big deal. I've done it once, did not take pics. If you get the chance, please do so.

junor747 · #38 02-21-2010, 12:35 AM

I just replaced my shift indicator bulb today. O'Reillys has them Wagner Part # 11009. Does anyone know the part # to the little bulb for the headlight rotary switch?

warmblood58 · #39 02-21-2010, 02:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pawoSD

Anyone here have any tips on replacing the bulb that powers the fiber optic system in the W126 cars? Whats the best approach/way to get at it? Also, what needs to be removed to replace the bulbs behind the climate control unit buttons? Practically everything is burned out by now on mine, and I wanted to replace some bulbs.

Yes, simple! Literally right behind the CCU which you must remove. I sometimes use a blow dryer to warm the plastic wiring looms as I push things aside. Look for the so called "Octopus" - wheel shaped housing with many lines coming off it -the bulb for the fiber optics is right in the center -I use long cheap harbor freight medical clamps to remove socket holder, I replace bulb, and use clamp to reinsert socket bulb combo - go for it! You will love your evening drives -Hell! The new stuff that glowed (that never glowed before) after the work almost scared the **** out of me! Damn spaceship! Seriously -you will enjoy this maintenance repair -good luck!

toomany MBZ · #40 02-21-2010, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by junor747

I just replaced my shift indicator bulb today. O'Reillys has them Wagner Part # 11009. Does anyone know the part # to the little bulb for the headlight rotary switch?

On what car would help.
This is for the 123 chassis. There isn't one for US models. Euros, I think, have a light in the middle for fogs.

snookwhaler · #41 02-21-2010, 09:07 AM

Man.... This is an OLD thread!

The shifter gate 3898 bulbs can be bought online. I got a box of 10 off ebay for $8 shipped.

I got a few left over if anyone needs one $2 shipped. It is nice to be able to see the shifter gate at night.

Carpenterman · #42 02-21-2010, 09:19 AM

My understanding is that the bulb in the light rotary switch was for rear fogs on european models. So for the federals, the light is basically inoperable. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

junor747 · #43 02-21-2010, 02:50 PM

Thanks, my ride is a '83 300D. That sux if it is non-functional. Who says the gov isnt into everything!