[alexander the great]

I would like to change the instrument panel in my 97 e 320 and want to make sure that after removing the old panel if there is anything I need to consider other than re-attaching connectors. I've checked the DIY for the removal of the panel and saw the cluster replacement and chose to replace the whole panel. I know that I shouldn't have the key in the ignition but other than that what else should I be aware of. Thanks for any help!

 

[alexander the great]

So I changed out the instrument panel and now I'm having some problems. Every warning light is on, my tach and speedometer does not work, transmission will not come out of first gear and I'm getting many fail messages. Somebody please help!

 

[Kajtek1]

Someone reported in the past that he drove the car with cluster removed. Did you try that?
How about putting the old cluster back?

 

[alexander the great]

Thanks for replying Kajtek1! I wound up taking it to an Indy and apparently the alternator needs replacing which is my first problem and apparently the instrument panel that I purchased from ebay only half way works. Everythings good except for the speedometer and tach does not work so it's going back. I guess I'll have to fix the cluster which I did not want to do to begin with. Tried to take the easy way out. The odometer,clock and temp does not show up clearly and thats something I'll have to live with until I get the time to fix it. Thanks again!