Chris

Great DIY post! Where were you when I needed you!?

For those with earlier models (I have an '86 300E) be aware that the reinforced scalloped ridges on the sides where the pulling hooks grab don't go all the way down like in Chris's picture. they start halfway up the vertical side and continue partway around the upper angled edge. If you grab them below halfway and pull, you'll likely break off a small piece of the plastic from the front as someone previously did on mine. I bought the proper tool from the dealer (only $11 or so per pair) and found that all you really have to do is to get the cluster out about 3/4" or so, then you can just gently work it out by hand without worrying about the hooks slipping.

Gary

PS - Does anyone know if you can get brighter instrument illumination bulbs? Mine are dismally dim even when turned all the way up. I like to run TSD road rallys and need to the see the tripmeter often and I have to use a small maglite every time. I replaced them with stock items as the originals were discolored, but no real improvement.