Instrument bulb holders?
 

So I have a w123, gauge lights not working. Previous owner had rigged an LED to shine on the panel but I didn't like that so I rewired the set up to use 2 LEDs in place of the original bulbs. This setup is really dim, so now I need some help.

I guess the sockets, or bulb holders are missing and I have no idea what they are exactly called or where I can find them.

Any help appreciated.

Also, can someone post a diagram on how to bypass the rheostat? I don't understand what exactly I should be jumping. Thanks...

The bulb holders may be listed as separate parts in the Mercedes Electronic Parts catalog (EPC) here. [If you don't already know, you can get a free subscription.] If they are listed, you can get them through any Mercedes dealer or from Phil in FastLane.

When you pull the rheostat off of the instrument cluster (after removing one or two screws), you will find that you have two pins sticking up. Solder a wire across those pins and your cluster lights will get full voltage all the time.

Jeremy

Is this the item I am looking for?

http://www.performanceproducts4benz.com/product.asp?pf_id=P54-097&dept_id=6322

Probably. There are two sizes; you want the larger one for the cluster illumination lamps.

How do you remove the bulbs from the holders (the smaller 1.2W ones?) Mine seem stuck and I just crushed one.

Those bulbs just push in and pull out, be careful.