Instrument panel removal
 

Can you refer me to a procedure on how to remove and gain access to instrument pannel and change bulbs.

also the odometer on 300E'86 don't work but the speedometer is working. can I fix this .

Thank you, Sami

Well I am guessing that it is the same on a 124 as a 126. There are actual tools for this (T handled rods with a 90 degree bent in ends) that you stick in the side of the cluster and pull out. I just used a coat hanger. If you still don't understand, do a search on this...many people have described this procedure, some with pics.

As far as the odo not working, I doubt you will be able to fix it. Your best bet would probably be to send the speedo into Palo Alto Speedometer (www.paspeedo.com), or any other competent speedo shop for that matter (that is just the one I have heard most about).... to have them fix the odo and/or refurbish your speedo.

I would advise against using the t-shaped bars or wire coat hangers to pull the instrument cluster out, unless you have already undone the speedo cable from the back of the cluster, otherwise you risk stretching the cable and ending up with a bouncy speedo needle.

The best way to get the cluster out is to remove the underdash panel, undo the speedo cable (and oil pressure line, if you have a live oil feed) and push the cluster out from the back. No stretch and no need for the hooks or steering wheel removal.

S,

Try a search for [instrument removal] and you'll get a lot of ideas as well as pictures to boot!

Here's another link for when I removed my instrument cluster:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/42845-dash-board-light-out.html

It is actaully quite easy and there are several different methods of accomplishing your task. I too don't like the "tool method" because of the potential to break/scratch the cluster.

Good luck.

I am not saying that your method for removing the cluster is wrong at all and I am not even really disagreeing with you....but...you have to realize that the "tool method" is the method prescribed by MB....or else they wouldn't make actually tools for it, and if I do remember correctly, that is what is in my service manual.

Also, I don't know how the tool method could break or scratch the cluster. I did it that way and had no problems. I am almost certain that the speedo on mine is electronic, making his 86 124 likely electronic too so a speedo cable does not come into play.

Again, it doesn't really matter...six of one and a half dozen of the other.....but I would hate to have to remove that lower panel just to pop out the cluster! Just seems more of a PITA than it has to be....that's all. :)

I have a 1991 190e 2.6.

How do I know if mine has the live oil feed / or if it doesn't?

Thanks, brookspw

If you have a skinny arm / hand, you can remove the left speaker and reach through, pushing enough of the cluster out to get ahold of it :)

Take a look at the post "Let's Pull The Instrument Cluster!."

Excellent step-by-step with pictures!

Does the Odometer reading remain same if I swap a cluster
 

I have disliked the scratchy cluster face bezel and
I have hated the broken reset buttons on my Instrument cluster. I located a replacement cluster for my W210 99 E320 in a lot closeby. Only problem is the guage on that car (still working!) shows 30K more miles than mine. If I swap, will I get stuck with a new mileage that I don't want?

Thanks in Advance