More Lighting Info Please

[n/a]

Tell me please, should the gearshift (automatic) be lighted on a 69 280 SL? if so, what fuse is it tied to?

Thanks,
Phil

[n/a]

Phil,
There is a light under the chrome housing that shines through the plastic letters/numbers. I don't know off hand which fuse powers this light. Your problem is most likely the bulb, unless there are other electrical things that are not working.
To replace the bulb, pull up the carpet covering the tunnel starting on the right side, until you have access to the 4 bolts holding the chrome cover in place. Unbolt the cover and lift it up to access the bulb. Be careful because the white plastic piece may be fairly brittle and you can easily crack it. If it is cracked or broken, then this is a great time to replace it.

Regards,
Stan

[rwmastel]

Stan,
Hi.  I was under the impression that these were not lit.  If so, that would be great.  I will look in my Spare Parts List manual tonight and see if it shows a light bulb.

Rodd
1966 230SL Euro
1994 E420

[George Davis]

I think the early cars did not have a gearshift light, but one was added to the later cars.  I don't know exactly when the change was made, but I think by '69 they had the light.

George Davis
'69 280 SL Euro manual

[n/a]

You guys are great,,, thanks for the help!

Phil Neely

[pembash]

Hi Stan-   I have a 70' 280SL which has the white plastic beadind broken at places, of course broken being brittle with passage of time.
Where could I get chrome cover with white plastic beading, presuming that beading does not come separately. There is illumination under the plate.
Thanks
Cheers
Bob

[n/a]

Bob,
The white plastic is sold as a separate item. It is held in place beneath the chrome cover with small metalclips. You will need to bend the clips back slightly to install the new insert. Although these clips ar efairly robust, be gentle when bending these as you do not want to break them.
Check the links section of this site for places to purchase the insert. I don't recall the cost for this piece.
I have used Caliber Motors for replacement parts. Tom Hanson is the guy to ask for. Tom is great to work with, a wealth of knowledge, the prices are competative and typically the parts arrive the next day.
Good luck.

Regards,
Stan

[Ray Ortiz]

the fuse that controls the shifter lights is the same as the dash lights.  You can control the intensity with the dimmer at the tach.
The plastic in the shifter snaps in place with a little pressure and  3 tabs hold it together.  Make sure you check the position of the light inside of the metal box, if not it would be too bright when you put it back together. The light should shine indirectly.