Tach Cluster lights problem.

[Otakuphill]

I added a tach to my Cluster and when i start my car the lights dont come on the cluster for about 10 minutes. i think its a power issue. How do i track it down?

[sam.1956]

One of the things I would check is the resistance & the function of the rheostat (OK... "potentiometer") that adjusts the voltage (brightness) for the instruments. May need to remove it from the dash & give it a thorough cleaning (trichlor??)

[fastivaca]

I have had this problem for quite a while with two or three different clusters. I can usually get the light to come on by turning the heater fan control quickly on and off a couple of times. I've got an extra rheostat so I'll give that a shot.

[25Horseplay]

I have had that probem as well, never did figure it out???

[FB71]

Is the climate control head illumination affected as well? If so, check Ground 201, under left side of the dash, on the kick panel. If not, check Connector 242, under left side of dash, near the fuse block.

Sam, the potentiometer is only an input to a PWM circuit (part of the dimmer ass'y), and would not affect the cluster lighting by itself. TriChlor is a bit aggressive for the plastic parts involved. Rubbing alcohol is sufficient.

[sam.1956]

Thanks for the clarification, Jim. I was making an assumption about that circuit w/o really knowing the components (....and you know how THAT goes). Goodness gracious, I do believe that I have had my pulse width completely modulated....................

[jrbauerjr]

Cluster Lights

I had quite a few problems along those lines, including a check engine light that wouldn't come on (very expensive for CA smogging). It would take a bumpy road and then half would come on and the other half go out. I finally removed the cluster, disconnected the battery and wire brushed all the contacts and sprayed them with an anti corrosion product.

So far I haven't had any further problems....

Jim Bauer