Center Console on 500 SL w129 - 1991

[Momo]

I have broken the sliding cover over the ashtray on the above, and have the new part. However, I can't figure out how to dismantle the back half of the center console to fit it, as there are no screws visible anywhere. Do I have to take off the front part of the console, i.e. the wood part, which I do understand how to do? Ideas?

Momo

[Benzmac]

You have to take off the frame for the door that flips open. There are screws inside the frame. Be careful there are some vacuum lines on this to lock it when you lock the doors with the top off.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

[Momo]

Thanks for the tip. For those attempting this seemingly trivial task, you have to remove the wooden part of the center console too, to gain access to two screws which secure the leading edge of the plastic part of the console. You can replace the rear sliding cover without doing this, but the front one is impossible to replace without dismantling the whole lot. You need the MB drawings and instructions to take apart the wooden console without damaging it. (I had them on a Popular Mechanics CD-ROM)