Removal of rotary light switch...
 

I've got a euro 1984 300TD. My rotary light switch bulb is out and I want to replace it. The manual says to pull to remove but that doesn't work. Pulling it turns on my fog lights.

I wanted to check in with you guys before I give it too much force... There is a little orange dot on the center of the switch. Maybe I'm suppose to remove that and maybe there's a tiny screw in there?

BTW... Is there suppose to be a light there? ha!

Side question... Is the ashtray light the same as the transmission? Can't find a replacement transmission light at any local stores and it seems like I have to buy 10 or more online. Can't buy just one... So I was hoping the ashtray was the same kind of bulb so I can swap it. I don't need the ashtray light...

digi

No secrets, just pull harder! If it has been removed before there is a chance someone used a dab of glue to keep it in place.

100% sure? I don't want to break it!

Yes harder. Do it.

I have found that a pair of pliers is necessary to get a good enough grip on the knob. Pad the jaws if you wish. The orange dot in the center illuminates for the rear fog lamp (European cars only). Your switch probably does not have a bulb in it and may also be missing the contacts and wiring for the rear fog lamp. I don't think my '85 300D-T had them.

yep. pull like the dickens on it. the body of the unit is held to your dash Via a large nut which is nearly impossible to take out by conventional means especially if it's been in there 20 years.

I use a rag between the jaws of the plires, and pull,

For the large nut, I use a 6in Needle Nose vice grip to loosen it, then it just spins off. not on very tight. My experience.


Charlie

You shouldn't need to undo the nut for the bulb, just the knob. If you do remove the nut and switch, pull the negative terminal on the battery. The semi-exposed screws on the rotary switch are hot to the battery.

Don't know about the tranny/ashtray bulb. Try it and see. What's the worst that can happen - you'll burn out a bulb you don't need?

The light comes on for the rear fog, your car may still have it, assuming not federalized. Turn headlights on, then pull to the second detent check the rear of the car. If the rear light doesn't work, check that bulb before doing too much wrestling with the switch. You may need to have continuity through the rear bulb for the amber indicator bulb to work.

I couldn't get it removed with my bare hands. I'll need to go back out there with pliers... Really stuck on there!

I had no idea I could pull the knob 2 clicks. Ya the orange light comes on and rear lights come on too.

Learn things about this car everyday!

digi

Yes! It came off. Thanks guys!

FYI... The ashtray bulb is the same as the transmission bulb. Yay!

digi