Instrument cluster will not come out W123
 

I have a '78 280E. I want to do some work on the cluster. In reading some of the steps to remove the cluster, the simplest looked to be remove panel and push from behind....very easy right? I am pushing, pulling, everything possible and it doesn't come out it comes out partial and then...no more. It's like something in the middle is keeping it in but I can see nothing that should do this. Any helpful solutions?

Disconnect the speedo cable.

From my 123 days, remove the speedo cable from the trans, also be carefull of the oil line going to the cluster

Look in the engine bay for a plastic clip that holds the speedo cable in place. Follow the the cable out from the firewall grommet to help locate the clip. Disconnect the clip. This will provide a little more slack so you can unscrew the cable from the cluster.

The cluster may be hung up on sagging/fallen insulation from the underside of the dash. There are a few wires or bundles that are on it that may hang up.

Good pic here of the cluster being removed. www.peachparts.com/Wikka/W123Evaporator

You can check the w124 cluster removal link as well.

reach your hand up behind the dash and disconnect the speedo cable.