Removing instrument gauge dials
Thread Starter
|
Junior User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 62
Likes: 0
From: Portsmouth, NH
Removing instrument gauge dials
Hey all. In my 1990 F150, I just swapped in an instrument cluster to get a tachometer, and the voltmeter doesn't work. I pulled it, and gave it 12volts, and it will move if I touch it, but not on its own, its real sticky. So I figured Id swap in my working voltmeter from my original cluster, but the dial pointer gets in the way of removing it from the panel. I can force it off, but then how do I get it back on in the original position? Mark it somehow? It doesnt have to be perfect, the only numbers on the panel are 8 and 18, so wherever it normally points is where Ill know it should be, but I also dont want to ruin the gauge.
Anyone ever replace a gauge from the panel? Thanks.
Anyone ever replace a gauge from the panel? Thanks.
Posting Guru
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 2,420
Likes: 3
From: Langhorne, PA
I would try freeing the movement first. I haven't seen the back of the cluster lately, I'm wondering if you could use an eyedropper to apply a little bit of isopropyl alcohol, or windex to the voltmeter workings. It may be possible to free it by washing it out. I am suggesting liquids that tend to evaporate without leaving a residue.
I am doing a lot of guessing here..I bet Ford used an epoxy on the pointer, that would be a problem.
I will not suggest oiling it , any meter movement I ever saw didn't need lubricant, or it wasn't a noticeable amount.
I am doing a lot of guessing here..I bet Ford used an epoxy on the pointer, that would be a problem.
I will not suggest oiling it , any meter movement I ever saw didn't need lubricant, or it wasn't a noticeable amount.
Thread Starter
|
Junior User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 62
Likes: 0
From: Portsmouth, NH
Well, its working. I pulled the panel anyway this afternoon and the dial moves freely, smooth motion, doesnt stick. I dont know how it happened, but I love it when stuff fixes itself, I just hope it lasts. The old cluster sat for a while, maybe something got in there, and the vibration freed it up. Im not complaining. Thanks 924x2150.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
MikeS
1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
12
Feb 27, 2014 11:22 AM
F350moneypit
1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
1
Jan 23, 2013 12:07 PM
outdoorfan
1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
2
May 12, 2011 06:14 PM
ham-n-swiss
1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
1
Nov 2, 2006 02:15 PM
dieselhappy
Pre-Power Stroke Diesel (7.3L IDI & 6.9L)
14
Jan 8, 2005 09:30 PM
