98 CL500 Cluster removal

I have hear about the hooks that are used to remove the cluster and have tried the homemade ones with coat hangers with no luck. Is this cluster supposed to just pull right out? I read where that said insert at 10 and 2 o'clock. I have pulled and pulled with no luck. Yes, the wheel was lowered and pulled back as far as it could go. Is there something else that I missing here?

Thanks!

[Gilly]

No, that's about all there is to it. The advantage to the MB tools it they have plastic handles. If your hooks aren't straightening out and slippping off the back, you're doing OK. What I can suggest is that you run the rods around the perimeter of the cluster to help loosen any bond between the cluster and dash. Sometimes on real tough ones, I will spray a little water and dish soap solution in the crack between the cluster and dash to help the cluster slide out.
Gilly