Thank you both for your help. I also found the following post which helps with the dash removal, albeit I don't know if this same procedure works with newer MB models (e.g. my 99clk)
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=32102&highlight=cluster

I know this topic has been posted a thousand times on this board, but... to be a single source of info, can anyone clarify?...

some posts say that after acquiring the hook tools, you still have to do certain things before effectively being able to change your bulbs:

including the following:
- disconnect the battery
- disconnect your speedometer cable in multiple places?
- remove some bolts or other wires?

Can anyone clarify on the steps prior to pulling the dash out?

Thanks again!