I need to remove the dash instrument cluster to replace the LCD outside temp guage. The manual shows a special tool. It looks like a pick. Is it required or cam the job be done with an ordimary pick set or small screw drivers?

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Chris Muc
Auto Tech
'87 300E 330,000 km

Chris,
The tools shown are pretty much glorified picks. I myself used a coathanger cut in two in the middle and bent at the ends (where it starts to curl up) into hooks. Be sure that your dash isn't too cold, just so you don't crack anything that might be a bit brittle when cold.
my two cents (about the price of a coathanger) :)
-Larry

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03/83 300D 184k
07/73 280 160k

Chris, get under the car and release the speedo cable from the trans before you pull the cluster. It will come a lot easier and a lot farther if you do. I made some neat hooks out of some aluminum knitting needles. Pounded the pointed ends flat and put a little curl in the end. Slip in between the fascia and cluster easily and grab the edges of the cluster without distorting anything. Try it. It's not factory but they're less trouble to get under the lip than coathangers. One guy I know suggested using some of those little suction cup toys, sticking them on the cluster lense and pulling it that way. Never tried it but it may be another less destructive way of pulling the cluster. Good Luck...

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Jeff L
1987 300e
1989 300e
1987 BMW 325

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 04-12-2000).]

I hate to butt in if you're already aware of this, but I will anyway just in case you're not because it would save you a lot of time and trouble. On my 300e, the LCD display went blank because the sensor was defective at the front bumper- easy, cheap fix.

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Bob Johnston
87 300E

Thanks for the replies! I wes hoping it would be easy. BTW the L.C.D. is cracked, but thanks for the concern Bob!

ps. How many miles on your's Bob?

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Chris Muc
Auto Tech
'87 300E 330,000 km

For about $15 US you can get 2 of these tools from a good dealer. The plastic housing runs $175 if you break it.

Jeff - still not quite sure where to place the 2 hooks for 126 removal? Could you expound? Thanks for your time.

Mike Murrell
Boerne Texas
'91 300-SEL

Mike, between the outer plastic lip of the cluster and the surrounding trim. Will be either vinyl or air vent surround. Gently slide hooks in and grab the lip of the cluster with same. Gently remove from dash. BTW, release speedo cable from the tranny first, if this applies in your case.

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Jeff L
1987 300e
1989 300e
1987 BMW 325

Chris

170,000 miles on my 87.

Bob

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Bob Johnston
87 300E