[zimmerdale]

I am taking out the instrument cluster to fix the odometer or have it repaired. I've read all the posts about tricks for removing clusters, so I think I've got that covered.

I also read posts recommending changing the bulbs in the cluster while it's out. So here are my two questions:

1. Is there anything else you would recommend that I do while the cluster is out?

2. Where can I buy replacement bulbs? (Just plain old normal ones are fine)

Thanks for suggestions.

 

[MTI]

With the cluster out, it would be advisable to change all the light bulbs. The warning lights on the bottom row are common "VW-type" bayonet bulbs and the illumination bulbs are "wedge" 5w bulbs, again very common.

While the cluster is out, you might want to consider pulling the instrument cluster out of the plastic shell (unscrews) and blow out any dust, and consider improving the light "conduit" to make illumination better. The "conduit" is a clear plastic prism that takes the light output from the wedge bulbs mounted in the rear of the cluster to the front/top of the cluster. You can improve the ability of the prism by making sure they are clean. Some owners have removed the prism and painted a silver/mirror coating on the backside to make it even brighter.

Finally, give some consideration to soldering a small ground jumper wire from the center speedo to the case of the left side cluster (fuel, economy, oil pressure, temp) since the ground to that side is a physical contact with the speedo. A small jumper wire will insure that a break in that joint won't electrically disable those instruments.

 

[Scott-thundercat]

replace the gauge faces with some nice white ones!

 

[zimmerdale]

Update

I have the cluster out and sitting on my dining room table. The problem with the odometer was that the gear and the entire shaft of the odometer had slipped to the side and was no longer catching on the worm gear. The gear wasn't slipping on the shaft, as I read is most common. When I push the shaft back into place, it's tight and stays put. Do I need to do something else? I don't see any way that I could keep it in place, because the shaft needs to turn. I think it will stay put for another 100,000 miles at least. Any (illegal) suggestions for how to easily add the 1600 miles I put on it driving it home?

About the cluster lights: MTI said 5W illumination bulbs. I read elsewhere that they're 3W, and that 5W will melt things. Which is the right size?

Also, on the soldering of a jumper wire, can you be a little more specific? I see the physical connection you are talking about. The wire should go from the speedometer body to where on the left instrument section? Should I try to do it on the metal that is currently used as a ground (there's not much of that visible)? Would it work on the metal around the back of the oil pressure gauge?

Thanks!

 

[MTI]

Gauge cluster: two 194/168 (5 watt)

For the jumper wire, all the metal cases on the cluster instruments are ground, so just find a convenient point.

http://articles.********/instrument/odo2/