New wiper potentiometer arrived today. I presume removal of speedo and possibly the clock are all that is required to install it.

My problem is that I an scared of marking the dashboard by prying the instrument dials. I have taped up a screwdriver and have a soft cloth underneath but I'm still worried that the syndrome might strike...!

Any foolproof methods for removal that will ensure no scuffing of the dash?

 

I spray the dial edge with soapy water, tends to help to ease them out and back in.

 

To mitigate Kahdmus Syndrome, you may want to start with the clock. It offers easier access and, once removed, allows you to push out the speedo from the back side.

 

To eliminate any chance of marring the dash i don't pry against it. Instead after taping the blade of the screwdriver and inserting it under the rubber gasket I pull outward until enough of the bezel is free so I can get my fingers on it and help it all the way out. Has worked for me many times.

 

Would something like a paint can opener work well to remove the guages? Hook it under the edge and pull out instead of prying.

Just thinking out loud.

 

+1 on the lube. Particularly putting them back in...I use a 1" wide wood chisle with the champher against a little peice of cardboard against the dash, and do start with the clock!. Just make sure it's a little dull so you don't cut the vinyl with the corner....

 

I followed the advice given and have to admit that they came out easily and with little resistance once I realized I would get more leverage if I put the blade BETWEEN the bezel and the gasket. Sounds stupid perhaps but I initially thought it best to slide under the gasket. Hopefully this helps someone else suffering from a syndrome.

incidentally, I switched the potentiometer and it made not one bit of difference!!!

 

I have a hard plastic tool, like a spatula, and I use a bit of wood wrapped in padding as a fulcrum. Also the soap trick really helps putting them back in. IMHO, the blade wants to be stiff enough, not really sharp, about 3/4" wide, with a handle that isn't too long. Maybe I should make a tool for it.

 

Best tip I've heard of for removing the dials is to use two tablespoons, one on each side of the dial. Insert tip of the spoon beneath lip of the gauge. Then use the bowl of the spoons to provide necessary leverage. Non-marring, too. Easy-peasey.

 

When I removed my clock it was very, very, tight!
I used Mercedes' instrument cluster removal tools to pull out. Basically two pieces of stiff wires that are bent like a hook at one end with handles at the other. Really grabs well.
It was scary how hard I had to pull to get the clock out! But it eventually budged.
I've also heard that rubbing alcohol makes a good lube getting the clock clusters back in.

 

How about a Garmin nav mount suction cup?

 

Thats a great idea. I LOVE Rennlist...most creative bunch of people I know!!!

 

Always worth trying just with the fingers first.

I found that this is one of those things that once you realise it can be done that way, you can do it. If you approach it thinking you probably can't do it, then you can't.

So just don't take 'No' for an answer. :-)

 

Great tip - trying with your hands first.

John - Is your picture reversed? The steering wheel is on the wrong side.

 

No, Rob. Your world is reversed. :-)