Instrument cluster upgrade maybe?
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Instrument cluster upgrade maybe?
I found a perfect instrument cluster out of a mid-70's Ranger XLT at the wrecker and got it for $20. It has the gauge for the oil pressure and alternator as opposed to the idiot lights I have in my 73 F100. Is this a simple plug in upgrade or will I have to rewire the plugs on back of the cluster?
Moderator & parts slinger
Joined: Feb 2007
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From: S/W Missouri, Polk county
I have read on here you will have to do some wiring due the difference in the light versus needle gauge. I am sure some one will chime in with the answer.
fmc400 is that man on the elec stuff, he should see this and respond.
fmc400 is that man on the elec stuff, he should see this and respond.
MSEE
Joined: Apr 2004
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From: Austin, TX
Idiot light vs. gauges are a completely different wiring setup. You'd have to modify the wiring all the way out to the voltage regulator under the hood.
Factory gauges are not worth the work involved, because they're meaningless in the first place. You're much better served installing a simple set of aftermarket gauges for oil/temp/volts. The factory ammeter literally is useless.
Factory gauges are not worth the work involved, because they're meaningless in the first place. You're much better served installing a simple set of aftermarket gauges for oil/temp/volts. The factory ammeter literally is useless.
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Visine, if I recall the '73-'74 clusters were the same, '75 was a one year only with a stupid 'low fuel economy' light. "76 cluster was different from all those as well. Also, the clusters with oil and amp gauges take a different size plug from the ones with lights.
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Thanks guys for all the input. Looks like I'm going to have a $20 credit at Pick 'N Pull. I am amazed at the quick, accurate response I get from this forum with whatever obscure dilema I encounter. If any of you are drinkers and you make it to Tacoma, please look me up!
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F-250 WARHORSE
1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
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Feb 6, 2018 10:11 PM
