Dead battery gauge

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Apr 9, 2012 | 09:24 AM

roach711

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Dead battery gauge

I have a 2000 E-450 with a dead battery gauge. The rest of the dash works fine and the alternator is charging the batteries normally. Is there a replaceable module or do I have to replace the entire cluster?

How tough is it to remove the cluster?

Thanx - Rick

Apr 9, 2012 | 11:08 AM

blageurt

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From: Thornhill , Ontario

Well ..you have to remove alot of stuff... and run the risk of breaking brittle plastic parts ....I would go to a Junkyard and practice removing one first if you have never done it ....it would be easier to install a regular type Voltmeter...Have you checked the connections on the Alternator ? sometimes a loose wire can cause these symptoms....

Apr 9, 2012 | 11:18 AM

roach711

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Connections are good at the alternator.

The add-on voltmeter is certainly an option but I'd prefer to fix the existing equipment if it's not too pricey.

Apr 10, 2012 | 07:13 AM

JWA

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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Quote:

Originally Posted by roach711

Connections are good at the alternator.

The add-on voltmeter is certainly an option but I'd prefer to fix the existing equipment if it's not too pricey.

If you're willing to do a bit of digging in the dash behind the cluster look for proper voltages at the connections leading into it from the chassis wiring. While not too likely there could be something amiss there and easily fixed. My 2000 EVTM shows connector #224, pin #3, RD/WT feeds the cluster's voltmeter.

If it proves to be the gauge itself I strongly suggest heading to eBay and/or finding a local LKQ salvage yard affiliate and replacing the entire cluster. Making a long and hilarious to me story short individual gauges can be repaired but its not easy just as Blageurt says.

Do keep in mind you'll need the exact cluster for your year and chassis as it does interact with the ECU to control various functions like trans shift points. There might be acceptable interchanges available---most sellers will be fairly well versed if something is workable for your particular vehicle.

I'd think you can find one for $100 or less with a guarantee. Keep the old cluster as it does have a value for spare parts.

Apr 10, 2012 | 10:09 AM

roach711

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Thanx for the info,

but this is looking like a real can of worms. I found some LED voltmeters on ebay that plug into the cigarette lighter socket. Think I'll go that route for now.

Apr 11, 2012 | 06:04 AM

JWA

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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Quote:

Originally Posted by roach711

Thanx for the info,

but this is looking like a real can of worms. I found some LED voltmeters on ebay that plug into the cigarette lighter socket. Think I'll go that route for now.

That's as good as anything honestly---much easier for certain!