W124 - which path is easier? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

dpetryk · #1 01-07-2016, 04:52 PM

I need to get to the cruise control amp. Is it easier to remove the instrument cluster to get at it or better going up from the bottom of the dash?

865sp300e · #2 01-07-2016, 05:42 PM

The cruise control module is located beneath the dash left of the steering column.

dpetryk · #3 01-07-2016, 07:04 PM

Thank you. I am aware of that. The question is what is the best way to access it. I have removed them in a 126 chassis and that was difficult at best. I am wondering if accessing it through the instrument panel (after it is removed) might be easier than going from beneath the dash. The biggest problem was accessing the screw holding it in place.

Any opinion an which way would be easier?

duxthe1 · #4 01-07-2016, 07:05 PM

Definitely underneath, though not exactly fun job even then.

nulu · #5 01-07-2016, 07:29 PM

Under the left side of dash is the only way

dpetryk · #6 01-07-2016, 08:25 PM

Thank you.

Benz Mondi · #7 01-07-2016, 08:43 PM

Ok, I'm talking about the cruise amp here-right?

Freeing the amp from its mount is super easy. Taking the bottom off (the dash) is most of the effort. It takes only a few minutes of effort the first time, even less afterward. You don't need to unscrew the amp from the mounting bracket while it's still in the car. First Unbolt the mounting bracket with the amp still in place, Then, with the amp out of the car, you can easily unscrew the amp from the mounting.

1. Remove fascia around steering wheel.
Press the ends of the small wish bone shaped surround directly behind the steering wheel together to free the end from the notches they are locked into. With a small plastic wedge, remove the fascia around the ignition switch. Pull the headlight knob toward you to exposed the hex nut that holds the fascia in place.Unbolt the hex and using the plastic wedge pull the fascia toward you enough so that you can unclip the small light receptacle.

2. Unbolt the lower dash
Removing all the fascia exposes all the 8mm mounting screws and a couple of small sheet metal screws. Note their placement and remove all the screws.Notice that the headlight switch has two silver tabs that must remain alignment in its bracket for proper mounting. Remove the mounting screws at the edge of the knee bolster.

3. Move the lower dash.
Once you have unscrewed the lower dash, you can lower it enough to access the cruise amp. It’s the sliver box on the left side of the steering column.You’ll see two 10mm bolts holding the bracket that it’s mounted to. Unbolt the two bolts to free the bracket with amp so you can move it forward and unplug it from the wiring.

The first time took me about 20 mins. Now it only takes me about 5 mins to free the lower dash.