W123 dash removal question
 

I've been reading through the various W123 dash removal threads and dmorrison's excellent write-up in the Wiki section. Most of the threads are concerned with major a/c work whereas I just want to replace my cracked dash with an uncracked one (and a few vacuum pods while I'm in there).

The question I haven't been able to answer is -- is it necessary to pull the console in order to remove the dash? I don't want to have to take the car any more apart than necessary. For my '87 300D Turbo (W124, OM603) I didn't have to remove the console but wasn't sure about the 123--most threads seem to involve removing the console as part of the dash removal process.

Jeremy

Nope it doesn't need to be removed...neither does the steering wheel!

You do need to remove the upper switch portion to get those two screws undone. I'd remove the console, that way you don't accidentally break something. And, you get to clean under it, which is always a bonus.

I've removed 3 123 dashes. You don't have to take out the console. But, like stated above you do have to remove the top wood trim with switches to get to two screws that hold the dash in. You don't have to remove the steering wheel but it makes removal a little easier with it out of the way. It also helps to remove atleast one of the A pillar trim pieces, both makes it easier, they snap in, so some gental prying will pop them out.

Getting it back in is the tricky part. Make sure the front edge of the dash is tucked in under the windshield seal.

Before going to all the hassle of replacing the dash, did you look at the molded plastic dash caps? I put one in my 300CD about 10-years ago and it still looks great and at a glance you don't notice that it's a cap.

Dash cap
 

Yes, I actually bought one -- can't remember whether it was for the 123 or the 124. It did not fit well around the a/c outlets or anywhere else, for that matter. I was not at all impressed and returned it.

That's interesting, I think I got mine from Performance Products (don't remember for sure), but the blue color was exact and once I remove the speaker covers and the AC sensor, it dropped right in and snugged up nicely around the AC vents. I looked at one for my wife's 300SD, but the one they make for the 126 just wasn't up to par - whole different dash shape on the 126's.

I ended up buying one of those fabric "dash mats," which I keep on the dash even though I now have one without cracks. I figure it will lengthen the life of the "new" dash.

Could someone direct me to the link that shows the dash removal progress?

123GUY where in Houston are you? i'm tearing my 84 300d completely apart in order to do a full resto-mod.

Here's a step-by-step for replacing the evaporator which requires dismantling the dashboard: Peach Parts Wiki