Build a resistor-capacitor circuit with an LED and bleed resistor wired across the capacitor. That should provide a few seconds' time delay if you size the components correctly.

I think that there is slightly more going on then just a delay circuit. I have not confirmed what chip is in the circuit, but there is an IC there.
I have some extra gauge clusters and just de-soldering this small board and using it would be pretty easy. I will upload a photograph of it later tonight.....

So there are 4 connections to the sub board:
1 - goes to the light for low oil
2 - #5 pin in the 15 pin connector (oil sensor)
3 - #4 pin and #6 pin (low gas sensor and fuse 5 terminal 15)
4 - Ground goes to pin #1

This is not my photo, but it shows the sub board to the left of the gauges:
http://www.xtuners.com/installs/W124-Plasma-dials-installation-6.jpg

Can you read any numbers or manufacturer marks on the I/C ? Most diagrams are readily available on-line.

__________________
Sam

84 300SD 350K+ miles ( Blue Belle )

I won't be able to read the I/C until I de-solder the sub-board.

Probably later this week.

I have a feeling it will end up being a 555 timer, based on the fact this this was made in the late 80's.

The IC says
1245
V-
568