hey everyone...
this is my second post on this board and my first thread, i hope this is not a duplicate thread as i did use the search button before making it...

okay, my name is Brian, i just bought a 2003 TL type S about a month or so ago and i am in the process of making a few repairs to it...

i'm trying to replace the 5th (D5) gear bulb in the cluster, i have a new bulb and also have the dash apart... i went to the junkyard yesterday and got the bulbs and a few other things i needed... well, to be honest i didn't really try to be nice to the cluster, i just took it apart and got the bulbs out, i was nice at first and took the needle off but then it kinda fell apart...

so, here is were i am am currently, do any of you know how to get the needle and gauge off with out doing any harm to the cluster..?







the repairs i need to make:
1) fix A/C vent on left side of cluster - DONE
2) replace bad bulb for 5th gear position on cluster - need help
3) fix driver seat - no power - i bought a new seat adjuster switch and the relays (i will give some feedback if that works)
4) some body work needs to be done - no hurry

 

i see people lurking about

 

bump... someone knows

 

BUMP
I've tried a few things but nothing has worked... i tried to pull the needle off but it's on there pretty tight...
i went ahead and put it all back together... i will have to try it again in the future...

 

On the back of the circuit board there are 2 tabs (see arrows) bent over that hold the gauge on to the circuit board. Straighten them out and the whole assembly will come out (no need to remove the needles, nor would i attempt to as damage can happen easily and you will have to recalibrate the needle.

 

DO NOT pull the needle out. If that comes out, you're out about a $100 to replace them.

You're make this all way too complicated. It's very easy to remove the three gauges.

Watch this video and follow along until the gauges are out:

After that, separate the cluster's front white half from the green board by pressing the two clips in the middle of the center. You can see the two clips in the picture you posted, and the bright spot is covering one of them.

Once that is off, replace the D5 bulb.

 

thank you very much... i greatly appreciate the info...
i may go out and do this now...

 

quick update...

with your help i was able to get the bulb changed out... thank you...