Hi,

I need to do R&R on my instrument cluster.

I would like advise on how to remove it and disconnect the gauges. Particularly the oil pressure gauge, since it sounds like that could be messy.

My instrument lights are intermittent, and my odometer slips when the car gets hot. I'd like to get these working.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Paul

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1983 500 SL (Gone )
1972 350 SL 4.5

Center the steering, pry out the plastic star badge in the middle of the steering wheel, undo the nut and pull the wheel forward and off.
The cluster can then be pulled out enough to disconnect the electrical connections and unscrew and remove the oil pressure tube. So long as you dont start the engine no oil should come out.
The flickering lights may be a worn reostat, have you just tried twiddling it before you start any of the above.

Haven't taken my SL pod out, but have on my 300D. There is a good write up either here or on Benzworld, perhaps in the W123 forums (HERE). Basically, you make up two hooks from coathangers, slide them in on each side of the pod, rotatea little and pull the pod out. You can also remove the lower dash panel and push it out. Only difference on the SL, is that the steering wheel is in the way and needs to be removed first.

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Graham
85 300D,72 350SL, 98 E320, Outback 2.5

Thanks!

So it's true that the oil pressure gauge is connected to the oil galley and will spray oil at 40 psi if I turn on the engine?? Hope I don't mess up that connection!

The problem with the lights is either the rheostat or at the light switch. Jiggling the rheostat or turning it does not make the lights come on, but does dim them when they are on. The lights are off most of the time, and then spring to life after about one half an hour.

I figure I can clean up the connections and check where the problem is.

Paul

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1983 500 SL (Gone )
1972 350 SL 4.5

Try turning the rheostat back and forth 100 times (99 may not do it ). I had no dash lighting and after doing this, have dash lights and the dimmer works.

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Graham
85 300D,72 350SL, 98 E320, Outback 2.5