dash cluster - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

paul219a · 03-11-2006, 21:22

Gday
My 20 yr old son has a ea fairmont ghia which petrol and temp gauge does really wierd things .The auto elec was keen to take it apart and test it out to see what it needs,then advise us of cost.Digital dash by the way.My question is are we better of to chase up a second hand cluster and have that installed as he only works part time it may be cheaper.? are they difficult to put in for a mechanical dumbo?

AU2XR85.0 · 03-13-2006, 23:59

Yes, they were a troublesome model the EA, but to answer ur question, no they are not hard to replace and can be bought from wreckers for around $50-$100 depending on condition.
Before replacing, check plugs for bad connection on back of cluster, XF was famous for this fault, and is easily fixed. Use contact cleaner(CRC or equivelent) on pins and socket, blow dry with compressed air.
If that didn't fix it then the cluster itself is probably cactus, and requires replacement.

Remove screws holding cluster in dash, remove cluster assembly(drop steering column down to allow removal of cluster), unplug harnesses from cluster and remove from vehicle.
Before fitting replacement, check all light bulbs on back of cluster, if blackened or mirrored, replace now, you will curse yourself once you put it in and they dont all work, lol.
Fitment is reverse of above.
Invest in a gregorys or haynes manual.
Good luck.

paul219a · 03-15-2006, 18:15

Thanx mate im gonna have a go at it myself as i have picked one up for 60 bucks i will folow ur advise and let you know how i go ....cheers and thanx again

AU2XR85.0 · 03-15-2006, 23:46

No worrys mate, hope it all goes well.