Instrument Panel Lighting

[n/a]

Hi everyone, Have no lights on my instrument panel.  Fuses ok.  Seems the knob that adjusts the  lights isn't turning properly.  Anyone have an answer.  GP

'69 280SL auto/red/black

[Cees Klumper]

The dimmer rotary control ('rheostat') oftentimes becomes defective. Mine has been taken out of the circuit somehow ('jumped') so my lights are always on full power (4 watt bulbs) which is not overly bright. Not sure what is involved in repairing it or whether they can be bought new.

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[gwuisman]

The rheostat is still available but is very expensive and if you have the repair been done the replacement even more. I also have let jump the cicuit on advise because there is no need to dim the lights.

Gerard Wuisman
1970 280sl

[hauser]

My rheostat was a bit unpredictable so I had it by-passed.  I have not missed the dimming feature at all.



1969 280sl 5 spd        1999 ML320          Gainesville,Fl.

[n/a]

I had this same problem a couple of years ago.  All I remember is taking the rev counter out and getting to the instruments.  Fiddled with something back there and got it working.  Guess I'll have to get into it again.  Memory problems-signs of old age. Speaking of memory--the other night I was surfing around on the sight trying to get to know my way around and came up on a web sight with pictures of a beautiful 280.  Had gold colored engine parts and on from there.  Can anyone recall that sight.
George

'69 280SL auto/red/black

[Cees Klumper]

That site may have been this one: http://www.ritzsite.demon.nl/280SL/MB280SL.htm

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[Malc]

In regard to the rheostat you could get a Lucas one, same for MGB, TR6 etc (very cheap in UK), then simply swap the knob over with a bit of fiddling???

Maybe worth a try
Malc