Unable To Remove MCS Unit From Dash (DTB 28M/99-2; MB-NET 685)

Publication date: 1999-12-14
Reference number: DTB 28M/99-2; MB-NET 685
Supersedes refnos: DTB 27M/99-2; MB-NET 623

UNABLE TO REMOVE MCS UNIT FROM DASH

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): DTB 28M/99-2; MB-NET 685, Date of Issue: December 14, 1999

MERCEDES-BENZ:	MY 00 Model 163
GROUP:	82 - Electrical System - Body

Superceded Bulletin(s): DTB 27M/99-2; MB-NET 623, Date of Issue: November 15, 1999

SUBJECT

DEALER TECHNICAL BULLETIN 28M/99

*** Replaces MB-Net No. 623 / Dealer Technical Bulletin 27M/99 **

SERVICE INFORMATION

28M/99-2 GROUP 82 - MY 00 MODEL 163, UNABLE TO REMOVE MCS UNIT FROM THE DASH: Cause: Variance in dimension of MCS opening in dash panel combined with use of incorrect removal keys.

We have received several reports of an inability to remove the MCS unit from the dash panel using the standard head unit removal keys. Due to tolerances in the molding of the dash panel it is essential that 7mm removal keys are used. The "7mm" reference refers to the amount of material between the edge of the key and the locking pawl engagement notch. The 7mm dimension may be verified as follows:

starting at the pointed end of the key, follow the curved portion to the point where it drops off sharply into a notch (this is the locking pawl engagement notch)
measure the dimension of the material between the bottom of that notch to the long edge of the key. This dimension will be either 6mm or 7mm.

Centers may have keys in the service area of both the 6mm and 7mm variants. In order to ensure compliance with the 7mm requirement for MCS, discard any keys with the following characteristics:

keys stamped with "LINKS" and/or "RECHTS" (these are 6mm variants)
keys which measure 6mm in the notch to key edge dimension

If uncertain about the usability of the keys in your center, you may order a replacement set under part number 929 589 01 05 00. These will be marked with both "TOP L" and "TOP R".

To ensure that all centers are equipped with a proper set of keys, all centers will be shipped one set of updated keys within the week.

To ensure removal without damage to the locking pawls, please observe the following procedure when removing the MCS unit with the 7mm keys:

Insert the tools on each side of the unit and ensure they are locked in place (may be confirmed by inability to withdraw the keys once installed)
Apply a gentle outward (toward the vehicle doors) pressure to each key until the key is felt to hit the edge of the escutcheon (DO NOT force the keys outward or you will damage the escutcheon of the MCS)
While maintaining this outward pressure on the keys, pull the keys toward the back of the vehicle; the unit should slide out.

Failure to perform the above procedure may result in permanent damage to the locking pawl retraction mechanism and will require major vehicle disassembly to gain access to the pawls from the rear.