Is it possible to replace the center vent vacuum pod elements without....removing the dash? '85 300D ...I did once read on another site possible to do this through the glove box....

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I too have read of someone who did this, working through the glove box opening and through the center vent bullseyes I believe. They are far more skilled than I...

I just replaced the center vent vacuum element in my 1985 300TD, and frankly, I can't imagine accomplishing this task without removing the dash. Unlike all the other vacuum elements which twist-lock in place, the center vacuum element has molded in pins which protrude through holes in the mounting bracket, onto which star washers/retaining clips are pressed. Perhaps if you were only trying to replace the rubber vacuum diaphragm, but even then, getting the pod open would be difficult.

Good luck,
r/
Dave

the center vacuum element has molded in pins which protrude through holes in the mounting bracket, onto which star washers/retaining clips are pressed. Perhaps if you were only trying to replace the rubber vacuum diaphragm, but even then, getting the pod open would be difficult.

Correct.

Possibly, and this is a big possibly, you could remove the center vents, then the rubber boot that connects the vents to the heater/evaporator case and reach the metal clips that hold the vacuum element in place. There is a chance of cracking the vents and the trim ring. You would need very small hands to reach inside. You would have to still remove the glove box, and even then, there is not much room.

The dash removal is not that big of a deal. I have done it a few times. Most recently, I replaced the evaporator in my '85 123.133 car. There have been several posts in this discussion forum regarding this.

Having just done this weekend before last, I can't fathom how to replace center pod element without removing dash. It may be possible, but I promise it ain't very likely!

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