All my dash lights now work except the climate control lights. They're all out. I've read the previous postings on replacing the lightbulb that shines back there. Sounds like it's sort of tedious, but not above my limited skill set. :-)

So how should I reattach the wood to the console? Double-sided tape? I've used contact cement on the glovebox wood, but I'm guessing I want the wood to be fairly easily removed for future access.

Any other tips before I dive in?

Thanks in advance.

The wood around the CCU unit is mounted to a metal plate. They both pop off as one piece. Pry carefully to avoid any damage. I like to use a plastic blade electrical screwdriver. Once thats off, remove the screws and slide the CCU unit out. Your can unplug the CCU and remove totally but if you are only after the bulbs it is probably not necessary. The bulbs mount is sockets in the wires. Pull both then pull the bulb out. This style bulb comes in 3W and 1.2W. I've found melted plastic with the 3W. There is a total of 5 bulbs on that wire. 4 in the CCU and the fifth plugs into a fiber optic spider web that goes to light other switches. I'd replace all 5 assuming they are the same age. Some are advocating an LED switch out for these that is not as hot - haven't tried the LEDs but plan to next time I change the bulbs.

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Charles
1983 300D, bought new, 215k+ miles, donated to Purple Hearts veterans charity but I have parts for sale: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=296386

I thought it seemed strange that the wood had to be unglued.... Thanks for clarifying. I've now dismantled the console and it's all quite obvious.

I purchased bulbs at a local Car Quest for $1 each, but I'm not sure if it's the 1.2W or 3W.... It says .70 CP. It's a US bulb for a Toyota dash. Am I asking for trouble by installing these?

just called the local dealer—they want 6.25 for each bulb!

Never mind. All is well. The Car Quest bulbs were ever-so-slightly too long, so they only worked with 2 sockets. The rest wouldn't snap into the housing on the backside of the CCU because of the bulb's added length. I tried to call Phil from this site to order the OEM bulbs, but got his answering machine. Called elsewhere and found a Sylvania bulb for .58.

MBZ is very specific with bulb wattage. If you replace a bulb anywhere on the car with a higher wattage than what is called for, you may very well burn something. NAPA stores can get the exact bulb for you if you want to avoid the dealer.

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Don't Chrome them; polish them

Actually, the Car Quest bulbs were less than 1.2W. Turns out .70CW is way less than a watt, so I wasn't worried about melting anything. The Sylvanias I just ordered are OEM spec.

Not only the wattage, but also the size. If the lower wattage bulb is closer to the plastic, I'd be concerned. Also, be sure the bulb goes in straight. I think some of my melting was due to a crooked bulb getting too close.

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Charles
1983 300D, bought new, 215k+ miles, donated to Purple Hearts veterans charity but I have parts for sale: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=296386

Thank you for that bit of advice. Excellent point. I will make sure to change the longer bulbs on Monday when I receive the new OEM batch of bulbs.

This is an outstanding forum.