I think MB was trying to keep the heat down in the instrument cluster...the cluster console has little or no ability to dissipate heat...1 or 2 5-watt bulbs probably won't do much harm, but 10 or so, well...
...I think the turn signal indicators on my W124 are too dim as well...I will probably bump mine up to 5W units as well.
As far as having a tight gauge cluster, try leaving the car out in the sun for a bit, and the dash surround may expand enough to ease the task. Otherwise, it might take a few firm tugs first, before a slow solid pull will remove the cluster.
I found the R129 cluster to be a much tighter fit than the W124...hence the snafu I encountered...
Get the tools...FastLane has 'em for $15...worth the expense and saves the grief of permanent (and expensive) cosmetic damage while attempting to replace cheap bulbs.
Next month's project...get out the tools and do the white-faced gauge treatment!!
