Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => Electrical and Instruments => Topic started by: rutger kohler on August 20, 2014, 08:55:35
-
I have to take my instrument cluster out to have the capillary temerature gauge repaired. Am attempting this by the "Stick" method coming in from the side by shifting the vent duct back. On RHD cars the tachometer is the closest to the removed vent. I have located the knurled nut that holds the clamp in position but can't move it by hand. I have yet to find a tool that easily fits in to loosen it. Pliers etc are very difficult to manoevre i find. Can anyone suggest how to loosen this off plse?
-
Hi,
I have previously used a rubber spark plug "connector" to turn a knurled thumbscrew
in roughly similar circumstances.
Good luck
Paul
-
Spinach!
-
Spinach!
X2
Sorry, no real tip, mine just unscrewed by hand, actually difficult to see how they could have tightened so much. Actually, how about spraying some penetrating agent and then trying again after an hour or so of soaking?
-
Rutger,
for the purposes of getting a grip on the knurled nut, you may be better off going in from below, taking down the wiring harness, laying on your back on the floor, and contorting your hand and arm up through the dash. Taking it off is much easier than putting it back on. Try using a rubber thimble on one of your fingers for more traction. Also, don't take any blood thinners before attempting this, as you may risk bleeding out.
Good Luck,
Mike Mizesko
Columbus, OH
-
I agree with Mike, taking the steering wheel off helps also.
-
Guys, thanks for all the comments, to Stick it's Marmite down here mate, not Spinach! I finally got it off by sheer persistance. I did try to go from the bottom but couln't get my oversize mitts anywhere near. Once i got the vent box loose and further back, and the small flex vent tube out of the way i could easily get to the knurled nut with my hand but not a tool. Have finally got everything out, would like to get the rheostat working for the instrument lights. It doesn't look burnt out but doesn't work.
-
Rutger,
The easy part is over. When you put it back in, just make sure to remember the ground wire. And keep a glass of wine nearby.....
Mike Mizesko
-
Yep, that's the one that fits on under the knurled nut right? Looking at changing the bulbs in all the instruments whilst they are out. reading the posts on the subject the choices seem to range from 2W to 6 W to LED's.
-
Rutger,
I did the LED's, and I am thrilled. The dash is bright at night. And no heat on the bulbs to hurt the gauges. Make sure you follow the posted thread on this site, as a couple of incadescent bulbs need to be retained for impedance. A couple of the LED's need to be ground down (on a wheel) on the sides to fit as well.
Mike
-
Hi Mike, i have read the post, will revisit. Not to sure if i can get the same brand down under. I am going to pull my rheostat apart tomorrow and clean, have bought some electronic cleaner in an aerosal. The Technical Manual has an excellent section on this.
cheers
Rodger