Dash, Gauges & Chrome -- oh my

[kampala]

I had all dash parts out of the 280 and now it was time to take apart the gauges, to clean the glass inside, clean the chrome, and get them ready for install.

I followed the Cees Klumper method of prying off the chrome bezels from the gauges to remove the glass for full cleaning -- it seemed impossible at first, but once I got an edge of chrome lifted, was able to pry slowly around.   

Quite amazed at how dirty all the chrome was -- came out gleaming after using the best stuff on earth - Dawn Dish Washing Soap.  And a simple wipe on/wipe off chrome polish.

Have now wrapped new "hockey stick" cloth tape per factory (anti-rattle, I assume) on on the edges where I found it and ready to go on the dash. 

  was able to commandeer the Kitchen table as wife was away.   

[Jordan]

Great looking gauges Oz.  How did/what did you use to recrimp the chrome around the gauges? 

[dirkbalter]

Very nice
  

[GM]

Don't forget new gaskets!
100-542-00-38

[kampala]

Marcus

The chrome trims are really thin - much thinner than I thought by looking at them.  Due to this the chrome is a bit flexible so once you pry up the edge most of the way around you can stretch the chrome ring off. To put it back on I slipped the portion I never uncrimpped (about 1/4) and worked my way around stretching the ring over the edge using only my fat fingers.   Once seated -  To push the thin metal back over the edge I just used the back of a hook tool - the rounded smooth part - and just pushed slightly and slid the back of the tool all around.  It’s not as pretty on the back as factory but it’s hidden.  A smooth rounded piece of hardwood could also work.

I used three sizes of flat blade screwdrivers to remove the trims.  The hook tool is too pointy to use for removal as it will damage the chrome but the rounded back of it works to smooth the crimping a bit.

Gary - you are right - I have all new gaskets - the old ones have really hardened over the years.

[1000nutsnbolts]

Kampala - thanks for the great photos.

I am planning on this project for next Winter. As the Fall approaches, can I reach out and pick your brain?

[49er]

They all look brand new. Great job!  My tach has a bit of a haze but but still legible and functioning. Not a job for my arthritic hands though I'm afraid.

John

[lreppond]

The jewelry of the car’s interior.  Love those knurled pieces when sparkling clean.  Job well done!   

[mikkolehikoinen]

Hi! I'm a new 230SL (1964) owner and need to take off the gauges: I would need some tips / pictures / how to remove the gauges - is there some specific order how to remove the gauges from the dashboard? Thanks for the help!

[zak]

Wow beautiful, Kampala. impressive skill and patience.
Want to see them all installed soon.

jz

[kampala]

Hi! I'm a new 230SL (1964) owner and need to take off the gauges: I would need some tips / pictures / how to remove the gauges - is there some specific order how to remove the gauges from the dashboard? Thanks for the help!

Since you are a full member, you have access to the tech manual.  The removal is described.

https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Electrical/DashboardInstruments#DashboardRemoval



 I had to remove everything since I was painting the car including the dash.  Most items are easy but be very careful with the rectangular cluster as you have an oil line to disconnect and you have a temp gauge capillary attached to the temp gauge. 

Once you disconnect the cluster you can slowly pull it forward enough to remove the temp gauge from the cluster and leave it attached to the capillary and tuck it back in the dash.  It will all make sesne once you start.

Careful removing the side vents - the pins can break -  if you can spray a little soap on the pin it will lubricate enough to help slide off — again it will make sense once you start.  These vents are removed from front but pins are secured through dash with clips and those clips need a touch of lubricant as described. 

Clock is easy to remove once you remove glove box. 

Find photos and it will make it easier. 

Best

Enjoy