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A friend has a 2003 F250, it's developed an issue where the gauges will randomly go full sweep, then off, no codes, only the check gauges light. I've said to check earth's & cluster connection. Truck stays running.
Any suggestions welcome.
If he has the ribbon cable style like my 2000 has, he can use an eraser (like on the back of a pencil) to clean the contacts. Then, use some contact cleaner to rinse them.
This is an old trick I learned many years ago and have used it on a couple of occasions. Once was to fix the control panel on an LG stove/range.
Doesn't the 2003 have that positive terminal block/connection under the airbox that is notorious for corroding and failing? Might have your friend check that spot.
Thanks guys, I'll pass this on, I know the '03 is a bit different as it has a different gauge placement to the earlier trucks, along with a trans temp gauge.
On mine the problem was a momentary disruption of power due to a failing ignition switch. See pic.
The engine (and dash) would cut out for a fraction of a second, so that the engine would restart instantly. Driving down the road a person might not notice the engine cutting out briefly. The time increases as the fault evolves. But the dash had to go thru new start protocol including all start up lights activating. 2002 and 2003 should be the same as far as the dash is concerned.
Thanks guys, I'll pass this on, I know the '03 is a bit different as it has a different gauge placement to the earlier trucks, along with a trans temp gauge.
The difference is much deeper than that.
Unlike the gauge cluster on a 2000, the 2003 gauge cluster is a linked node module on the truck's data communications network.
On mine the problem was a momentary disruption of power due to a failing ignition switch. See pic.
The engine (and dash) would cut out for a fraction of a second, so that the engine would restart instantly. Driving down the road a person might not notice the engine cutting out briefly. The time increases as the fault evolves. But the dash had to go thru new start protocol including all start up lights activating. 2002 and 2003 should be the same as far as the dash is concerned.
Interesting. I've seen a couple recent threads on a couple different forums saying they have a weird issue with the cluster rebooting or whatever. this might be the cause. I might have to steal this if I come across it again
