W126 Instrument Cluster Removal Tool
 

Hello All,

With all the technical expertise I've seen from this group, I'm sure some of you have come up with a way around this years ago. I'm needing to remove the instrument cluster on my '89 300SE to investigate my fickle clock. The repair manual CD's call for a special tool 126-589-03-33-00 to slide in at 5 points surrounding the cluster. I have a couple questions, first, should I purchase the tool or is there a suitable alternative? (e.g. 90 degree bent coat hanger, if so, what dimensions)

Secondly, the five retaining clips the manual talks about, can they be released individually or do all five need to be released simultaneously to slide the cluster out?

I imagine I'm making this process more complicated than it really is. I've read some posts where some models you take a vent out and reach behind, am not sure that applies to this or not.

Lastly, on the clock. I set it and it works fine for 5 - 10 minutes then stops. It does that each time just like clockwork (yeah, I know, that was a cheap shot). Any ideas?:rolleyes:

Thanks in advance.

Jeff

Jeff,

Here is a link to everything you need to know on this subject. On my 91 w126 only one capacitor was needed. It's a very rewarding repair, good luck.







http://hsb.baylor.edu/html/easley/autofaqs/clock.htm

Fred,

Thanks for the Very informative link. I wish the CD manual set I bought was half as detailed. Thanks again, I'll give it a try this weekend after I sort out my left speaker problem. (determined it;s the left channel amplifier, trying to find a used one).

Thanks again.

Jeff:D

clock info link dead
 

Well, it's 2012, and the link listed in one of the above replies has gone dead. Does anyone know where to re-find it?

http://business.baylor.edu/Richard_Easley/autofaqs/clock.htm

Look at a picture of the side of the instrument assy to see the place where the hooked coat hanger goes. About half way up on each side. First time I did it I used 2 hangers pulling both at once but now I just use 1 and do each side seperatly. It's really simple once you have done it. For the clock, just take it out of the assy and look for a cap. standing up, go to Radio Shack, should be called Phone Shack now, and buy the cap for a couple $. You have to have the part identifier which is printed on the side, "X.X MF XX volts dc" (I don't remember the value, it's been over 5 years since I replaced one) or take the clock with you to R.S. and let them get the replacement part for you. You have to have a soldering iron to replace it. If you don't know how to solder find someone who does, this is not the place to learn how. Or buy a clock on ebay.

just thanks
 

for your excellent help.

Bruce S