Instrument cluster lights!!! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

lsmalley · #1 11-19-2009, 06:03 AM

Can someone give me some advice on replacing the lights behind my instrument cluster for a 1990 190E 2.6? Thanks and cheers!

ps2cho · #2 11-19-2009, 09:44 AM

Same way for the w124. There is a DIY article on this site @ top under resources

azurite300E · #3 11-19-2009, 09:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ps2cho

Same way for the w124. There is a DIY article on this site @ top under resources

You can easily build yourself the two hook tools that are required to pull out the instrument dashboard. Or sometimes with a little hand work the dashboard is loose enough to just pull it out without using the hooks. Before fully pulling out the instrument panel, you have to reach in behind it in order to disconnect the speedometer cable. I usually find it easier to just pull it out enough from the right side to be able to get my hand in there. Then you have to feel for the cable nut and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it, and the pull the cable apart from the speedometer towards the front of the car.

lsmalley · #4 11-19-2009, 10:16 PM

Thanks, I will try to see if I can get to it this weekend. Been meaning to replace all my lights with the LEDs...so far all have been replaced except the instrument cluster and the small one underneath the center console. By the way, LEDs look great. If you havent done so already, I highly recommend it. much brighter.

ps2cho · #5 11-20-2009, 12:26 AM

Post some pictures and what LED's are you using? Source? I'm worried over melting the housing. Using a 5w bulb instead the OE 3w ends up melting the housing...

lsmalley · #6 11-20-2009, 12:44 AM

Yes I will get some pics posted up.....but the LEDs don't get nearly as hot as the OEM bulbs and they are much brighter. I got mine from 42draftdesigns.com They have bult in resistors and everything is already included in the bulb for plug n play. If you put the bulb in and it doesn't work, just rotate it 180 degrees. LEDs are a bit expensive, but I'm currently working on trying to get them from the source instead of the middleman. Have someone in China looking into for me. If I'm able to get it going I will definately pass the word around so you can all get it at cost as well.

hamrt · #7 11-28-2009, 02:31 PM

Word of caution about replacing warning lights with LEDs on W124s... The Battery Charge, SRS, Check Engine, and Brake lights do not like the LEDs and you must use a conventional bulb, especially on the battery charge. LED on the battery charge will cause the charging circuit to not charge and the warning lights will not go out after engine starts. Also, the light bulb and holder on some of the lights are intigral units and you will have to remove the old bulb and solder in the new LED. I got my LEDs from SuperBrightLEDs.com, #74x is the item number. I used red, amber, a blue for high beam indicator, and green for turn signals. You do have to get the polarity right or they will not light up. Don't use the high power ones (#74xHP), they are too bright. Actually, it was more trouble than it was worth. I would not recommend it. If everything is working, leave it alone.

If, for some reason, you do have to remove the instrument cluster, pull hard, but gently. After removing the instrument cluster, make sure you have all four rubber pads still attached and use a small amount of synthetic grease on the clips that hold it in place. It will make it a lot easier to re-install and remove again in the future. I used Castrol Fully Synthetic grease because it is a light color and doesn't stain if you get a stray glob of it somewhere.