Subject: <E12> Instrument Cluster Removal

Andy T. wrote:
One of these days I am going to have to take out the instrument cluster and replace some of those forsaken lights in it (specifically the "D" light and one of the bulbs at the top) in my '79 528i. I don't have the foggiest idea on how to take out the cluster to do this. My Chilton's is absolutely no help (it never is, it seems). Is there a good book for working on my 528i or cansomeone give me general directions on doing this? I don't feel like paying someone $50/hr to replace a $2 bulb! I had both a BMW factory manual and a Haynes manual (still available, Ibelieve) for just the early 530I and 528I cars. I did replace some bulbs (areal pain) but do not remember for sure if the info was in the Hanes manual- - but in any event, that particular Hanes manual is VERY good and worthwhile buying.

Andy T asks how to remove the instrument cluster from a '79 528i. Here is my best recollection of the task. (forward = toward front of car; rear = toward rear of car)

1. Remove cover under dash.
2. Loosen (maybe remove) one (I think) knurled nut under

   dash just forward of the cluster.

3. Disconnect speedo cable from cluster.
4. Disconnect electrical connector(s) from cluster.
5. Remove two screws near top rear edge of cluster.
6. Remove cluster from dash.
7. Slide back or remove steering wheel if clearance is needed.

As long as you're going to all this trouble, you may as well replace *all* the bulbs in the cluster.

Curt Ingrahamingraham_at_ssl.berkeley.edu