How do I remove the clear plastic window over intrument cluster?

[irieite]

I want to install some chrome rings around my gauges, but this requires me to have access to the area directly behind the cluster window.

I know how to remove the cluster (although I haven't done it yet) and I know the gauge cluster can be separated from the housing that includes the window.

My question is, how do I separate the window from the housing? Is it clipped on? Pressed on? Glued on?

[NEA-4311]

Hi,
The reason I did aaall this is for other members to be able to use the information, so I will try to keep the pictures in my photobucket as long as I can guys. So read carefully. First you need to unscrew the large lid under the wheel, where your knees are when you drive. After that you will have access under the dash, with many cables and the steering column. In order to take the gauge panel off because thats what you have to do, you need to lie down with a flashlight and try to see some metal clips located on the bottom back of the gauge panel where the YELLOW ARROWS show you. Once you locate and disable the clips, if you want, you can help the panels way out with a small screwdriver, preferably from the BLUE ARROWS corners, dont put to much pressure on because you will break the plastic.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j137/NEA-4311/72043096.jpg

Once you have gotten the gauge panel out, before pulling it towards yourself too much, you need to remove two sockets (GREEN SQUARES) but take your time to figure them out, as they have some kind of safety switch on them. Then over the wheel and you should be holding the panel on your hand. Time to take the rear plastic cover out by removing the clips shown by RED ARROWS. Once you re in, try not to touch too much, you will see the big picture for yourself. You insert the rings through the middle gauge hole, duh! ;) For this *I* didnt took the negative out of my battery, I even did it with the key on and nothing happened. But thats just me.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j137/NEA-4311/7acfc534.jpg

[irieite]

Greek merC, thanks so much for the reply.

So, you're saying they need to all be inserted and installed through the speedo hole? That sounds tricky.

What about installing those carbon fiber gauge panels they sell on eBay? How would you install those without removing the clear plastic cover?

My guess is that there has to be a way, but I want to know what is involved before purchasing one of these kits.

[benzonline]

I was thinking the same thing to do but I ddint want to touch the gauge cluster since its never been out before. Possibly post pics if you ever do this project!!

[NEA-4311]

The plastic glass is glued to the rest of the panel (grey colored in my pics). I wouldnt mess with the glass then, as you may easily brake it. Just make sure that the carbon-optic panel you want to install is soft so you can squeeze it through the middle gauge hole. If your middle gauge is completely round (later models) then it might be a bit tricky for the ring... Try pressing it through gently and Im pretty confident it will pass through. Good luck on that!

[irieite]

Originally posted by NEA-4311
The plastic glass is glued to the rest of the panel (grey colored in my pics).

Thanks. That's what I wanted to know.

I guess that explains why there are not so many photos of w202 gauge clusters with chrome rings installed. heh :(

[NEA-4311]

Try this link:

http://www.club202.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=9626&perpage=15&pagenumber=2

Scroll down and you will see one with chrome rings. :lick:

[jevous]

mate,

thanks for the comprehensive guide there.

i've been wanting to slide my instrument panel out to swap the bulbs in there to LEDs and also, been reading numerous guides on how to do it.

apparently, there's an instrument panel removal tool that some of them have that helps them pull out the instrument panel without having to open the cover below the steering wheel. and because i can't get hold of that removal tool, i tried making myself one using some wire bent with pliers.

tried to hook the instrument panel out but it wouldn't budge and i don't want to force it out either. afraid it might damage the panel altogether, then i'd be :(

but yours seem like a decent method to use. so i'm going to try it out tomorrow morning itself. hopefully, all goes well.

cheers

[NEA-4311]

Always a pleasure to help my Club202 brothers. :)

[Nelson Lago]

HAY DO YOU NEED TO REMOVE THE STERRING WHEELE

[RemoLexi]

Originally posted by Nelson Lago
HAY DO YOU NEED TO REMOVE THE STERRING WHEELE

no.

[NEA-4311]

No you dont, instead when you take the cluster out of the dash shell, try to put your hand behind it and unlock the 2 sockets in order to take them off. You dont have to pull them out at all, all you have to do is find the trick to unlock them. Then when the cluster is free, try different angles to be able to take out the wheel. Keep the wheel straight. Good luck man.:confused:

[Nelson Lago]

well i look it up on alldata and thay said i had to remove the sterring wheele and it doesnt look like it will come out with the sterring wheel........ but i think you did it before........i want to remove my cluster because i need to chang to light bulb so doest that chang anything

[NEA-4311]

I ve done it 3 or 4 times. I know trust me. You DONT NEED TO REMOVE THE STEERING WHEEL. :)