Instrument Cluster Restoration

[teke]

Hi all,

I've been a member for a number of years but haven't posted. The board is a wealth of knowledge with so many informative topics.

While I do not own a 500E, I do own a 1995 E320 cabriolet with ~36k miles. I have recently begun to address some issues which are common with these cars, engine harness replaced, (i was shocked at its condition) lower harness replaced, all new fuses, headrest lift mechanism. My next big project will be to remove all the convertible top lift cylinders to have them resealed along with the pump, and the valves under the rear seat. Hoping that it goes smoothly. After that I intend to tackle the instrument cluster, which has the DDD. i believe I have read every article on this board. I have taken the advice of many and have purchased some spares.

My question, for the those have have successfully separated that clear plexiglass from the housing, how did you do it? I read about sharp knife blade....ok but what kind and where, where did you start on housing.....i did experiment with a "practice" housing that was un-restorable, the DDD was terminal, and it was a fail for me.

Look forward to your advice.

Kevin

 

[gsxr]

The clear plexiglass is not meant to be removed, and in general never needs to be removed. Leave it alone. Often, the clear plastic will crack if you try to pry it off. If the cluster is in poor condition, the best solution is to replace it with a good used one, preferably from a late-model 124 as this will have the upgraded / thicker light guides for illumination.

 

[sheward]

I used an Exacto knife with a curved blade. The curved blade just seems to dig better than pulling the straight one. It takes patience going over the perimeter many times. I found areas that were already gapped from the manufacturing process. the bottom will be the most difficult. Some easy twisting of the housing as you go may show where you have separation but be careful as everything is brittle and cracks easily. You may not have found my post where I stated I used the Exacto knife. Find and read it for additional info on two small 1mm tabs on the plexiglass that sit in tiny indents on the bottom. It may help to imagine assembling by placing these plexiglass tabs in the indents first and then closing the top.

You may have some success by heating the Exacto each time you make a cut. I did not have the patience for this, but this job is all about patience. Make some cuts until your hands hurt, set things down and come back to it, over and over. Start at the top and look for gaps.

To be clear, as Dave stated, the cluster is not meant to be separated. You will be in uncharted waters.