Now that I have taken care of the major mechanical issues, I am starting to work on non-crucial components. Is there an easy way to remove the 4 climate control levers or the entire unit? Unfortunately, my CD manuals do not show these parts at all. I have 4 replacement levers and don't want to disassemble the entire dash only to find out I should pushed up on a certain corner and had it out in 2 minutes.
If you don't want to disassemble the dash, you may want to consider Dura-Levers, an aftermarket product that allows you to replace the levers without all that work. They cost more than the OE replacements, but the time and work saved is substantial.
Vehicle: '73 280SE 4.5, 73 280C (sold), 65 220SEb (stolen), 03 BMW Z4 (upcoming death trap/prison sentence)
Location: Hillcrest, CA
Posts: 293
I got to mine by taking out the center speaker grill, taking out the windshield wood, unscrewing the dash (you'll need an offset screwdriver to get to the screws, right at the glass), and pulled off the dash. I also took out the radio, and the chrome bezel assembly, leaving me complete access to the controls. In all, about an hour and a half to get it all out. The chrome bezel which surrounds the levers is held on by two nuts, one on either side of the assembly. You may or may not need to take it off to replace the controls
There is no easy way. The job isn't awful, but patients helps. Grubeguy is correct. The radio comes out and the dash speaker or dash plate in its place. Chrome trim comes off with two nuts fom back (should be 10mm). Move thecontrol to the "centered" position to get better access. Then, you will need to move the levers back and forth somewhat to line up the set screws. Also, pay good attention to the cables and where they attach or you will confuse yourself in reassembly. Also, pay attention to the metal cable clips that will jump into the dark recesses of the dash if you are careful. Sound like fun yet? Go for it! And any other questions, we are here for you.
DURA LEVERS are the only way to go. Be aware the cause of the breakage, usually the cable binds within the covering causing undo stress on the levers. The effort to slide the levers should be slightly stiff but not sticky and they should slide with no intermittant binding felt.