PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - '86 560 SEL shifter light bulb replacement

MikeTangas · #6 01-01-2004, 11:58 AM

For the '86 there is a bulb located at the left front corner of the shift gate. Once you have the wood panel off you will see a string (at least you should) at that location. Pull the string and out will come a small socket with a small bayonet bulb.

Getting the wood out can be tricky and you will damage it if done wrong. Remove the ashtray, then the two screws you see under the ashtray, slide the whole ashtray assembly out. Next work the coin tray out by sliding forward to disengage, you will also have to disconnect the seat heater switches (switches stay with the tray), be care not to get the connectors swapped or the swicthes will activate the wrong seat. Once the tray is out of the way carefully, I can't stress enough, carefully try to slide the panel forward. DO NOT try to lift the panel, slide it forward about 10mm or so.

Sliding it forward will disengage the two L shaped legs that keep the panel secured. Once forward about 10mm, carefully lift the panel at the rear and start disconnecting all of the window/mirror and fader switches. Once all are free the panel will lift straight off and you will be able to locate the string.

Should you break anything, or find anything already broken on the center panel check this out . That link will walk you through some fixes.

Hope this helps. Happy New Year!