Hey,

It seems that my 202 is in the mood to give me problems lately . The backlight behind my tach seems to be dimmed. I remember seeing a long write up by GDawgC220 on how to remove the cluster, but I can't find it anymore. How do I remove the instrument cluster in order to change the bulbs? Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks!!

-Neil

 

I think i still have pictures from a while ago...i'll post the write up later tonight for ya

 

cant wait, want to replace mine

YaY

 

http://www.w202-freunde.de/tipps/kombiinstrument.html

I have the english version somewhere, but anyways the images are ok IMO

Etienne

 

Thanks man!

 

Okay, here it is:

First, you want to make some "cluster removal keys". Take a metal coat hanger and cut two 5" rods. Then take about 1" end and bend 90 degrees to make a right angled "hook".



Then put a cloth over the steering wheel, as you don't want to scratch anything.

Now, at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions are where you want to stick the "keys" in. Once you stick them in, pull downwards and there are hook grooves on each side for the key to latch onto.



Once you feel the key latched on, pull both sides at the same time outwards towards you. It may take a few tries to get it properly.

Now, once you have the cluster out, the top of the cluster will be hitting the top of the steering wheel as it is angled that way. Tip the cluster upwards so the plastic shield is almost flush with the steering wheel.



Reach behind on both sidessss and there will be connectors. They are held on with plastic latches. Just pull the latches up gently and remove the conectors. Simple.



Now, here comes the part that decides if it's easier or harder. If you have the telescopic wheel, pull it all the way out so it makes taking the cluster out easier. If not (mine is not telescopic), make sure the cluster is flush with the steering wheel, as said above. Then you want to turn the car on (ignition) so you can turn the steering wheel with ease. Move the steering wheel and cluster at the same time towards the right and the cluster will slide right off.



Now you have the cluster out, turn it around to see all the bulb placements.



Locate which bulb it is that you need to replace and do so. Not a bad idea to do them all since at some point they will burn out, so save yourself the trouble of going through this again. Up to you.

Once you replace the bulbs you need, reverse the order to put the cluster back.

Any questions, let me know. Good luck, I hope this helps you guys

 

rhaYpe!!!


perfecto.... now to create a TRUE orange cluster panel



FYI- that guys wearing gloves

 

haha, yes, I was :p

 

I shall wear gloves to then.

What exactly did you remove it for? Did you change the color of the bulbs?

Where the bulbs white shining through the orange plastic?

Ehh??

Thanks maYne

 

Nah, the bulb illuminating the gas gauge portion of the cluster blew out so I needed to replace that

 

but,,, where the bulbs white?