Instrument Cluster Removal

[Ian B]

Anyone know how to remove the instrument cluster from a Mercedes (SL320 R129 1997) using the special tools. You can feed them in at the sides of the cluster but then what? How does it unlock or do you just drag it out? I'm probably being over-cautious but I don't want to crack the plastic, any help much appreciated.

[Pete Geither]

Mine was a real bear to get out. It was easier and safer to pry from behind with a well padded bar. There is a brace on the left side you can pry off of.

[tecqboy]

The tools are a bit tricky the first time. It's better to drop the carpeted panel below the dash and push out the cluster from behind. Lower the steering wheel as far as it will go. Disconnect the battery. Slide a credit card or some other thin plastic tool around the edge of the cluster to break the "seal" with the cowel. Then gently push from behind. It's all electronic, so it will release from all the electrical plugs. Once you have it out, you'll see where / how to use the wire tool the next time.

[myanoch]

Does anyone know if the front lens cover come off from the front or is it attached from the back of the cluster on a 00 sl500 ???
Mine has some stains on one side of the lens cover
I know my 560sl was easy to remove the instrument cluster
this one seems like it is in there tight

[speace]

On my 92 I had my shop "pop" it loose for me. I drove home, pulled it on out, repaired my unit and snapped it back in. I had the bad capacitor that intermittently caused everything to flash and reset when I touched the turn signal, or tapped the brakes...

There is no latch, it just snaps out and back in!

If I recall, there is no way to just remove the lens without putting the entire cluster on the workbench. I did not move the car with the cluster out, but was told it would run just fine. (There is no oil pressure tube on the R129.)

[myanoch]

Thanks for the tip Speace
sorry I am a little late answering
I was afraid I would have to pull it all apart
Did you also remove stearing wheel?

[speace]

Originally Posted by myanoch

Thanks for the tip Speace
sorry I am a little late answering
I was afraid I would have to pull it all apart
Did you also remove stearing wheel?

I used the tilt function on my wheel to move it down and away from the dash as far as it would go to get the needed clearance. Place a shop rag over the steering column for scratch protection. If you are pulling from the front with the tools, remember you have to go in at least an inch, maybe two, to get to the spot the tool can catch on the cluster. I don't have the tool, but my shop "loosened" it for me so I could just pull it with my hand when I got home.

Teqboy had some good suggestions as well. He is saying it might be a bit stuck if it hasn't been out in a while.

Good luck!