Need Help With Cluster

[Doonbugg]

My cluster started going crazy, lights flashing, all gauges falling and restarting. Stuff like that. I figured the cluster had a short so I just replaced it. Same thing. Any ideas ? Anyone know where the ground might be for the cluster? I need help... Thanks

It is on my 93 325IS

[ironblaze94]

Have a look at the wiring around the trunk. There have been a number of reports of clusters going crazy due to shorting wires.

[mvancE30]

sbblowz has an extra one.

[Doonbugg]

I already have two extra clusters. Both go crazy too. I am going to tear the trunk apart tonight.

[Doonbugg]

No obvious shorts in trunk, Any other ideas ?

[LockDots]

hmmm, the performs the same though?

[Doonbugg]

Yep, no change in the running of the car

[LockDots]

hmmm, can't see it being the ECU then. I'm guessing you checked all your fuses already? And if you did or didn't make sure you use a meter to test. Visually you only have a 50/50 chance of being correct as they can sometimes look perfect or even new and still test out as blown or cracked in a spot you can't see or tell.

[Doonbugg]

I checked the fuses, Number 31 I think, Looked good, i didnt use a meter tho. I will do that.

[LockDots]

defintiely use a metere on ALL the fuses not just the one you think it might be. Some fuses affect others that my appear fine. Turn the car on, and turn all the lights on. Then start checking every fuse. Every good fuse should have either +12v or negative(ground) on both sides. If you see positive on one and negative on the other, you may have a bad fuse.

[Doonbugg]

I changed the fuse, problem seems to have gone away, Dont I feel like an idiot :) Always check the cheapest thing first. Thanks everyone for your advice...

[LockDots]

lol np man. how'd you figure it out, metered it like i said?

[Doonbugg]

LOL, my meter was dead, I just replaced the fuse.... :)

[LockDots]

wow LOLOLOL. that's great man,i've had many of those nights

[old skool]

I changed the fuse, problem seems to have gone away, Dont I feel like an idiot :) Always check the cheapest thing first. Thanks everyone for your advice...

That was going to be my first suggestion. Definitely check the simple stuff before buying multiple clusters. Also, keep in mind that for legal resale of the car, if you have changed the cluster, you have changed the mileage listed on the car. You can get the dealer to reset it to the correct number, but even then you may have to disclose this at time of sale.

[Doonbugg]

So True, But the original cluster is going back in so everything should be ok.