Instrument cluster parts swap

[MrAsp]

Hy guys, I need ur help!

My '84 320i instrument cluster doesn't work properly. In particular the speedometer works only when it is hot (sunlight on the dash, heater on), the SIA's leds are blinking, also with new batteries ( ) (the speedo didn't work also before the SIA problem) and the econometer doesn't work since... 199X (neither when the speedometer works).

I have found an '89 320i cabrio instrument cluster, and I'm thinking about swapping it into my car.
The "new" cluster is a VDO, like mine is, but the fuel level gauge has a maximum of 60 liters (mine has got a maximum of 55 liters), the SIA has got only one red led (mine has got three led) and there isn't the water temp gauge.

Can I swap my fuel level gauge and water temp gauge into the "new" instrument cluster?

I mean, is it possible to use the "new" cluster with some components coming from the "old" cluster?

Thanks!


... and sorry if my English is not perfect!

[Brianmoooore]

AFAIK, it all should swap over. The fuel gauge needs to be swapped, as it will read completely incorrect. (Far more incorrect than just the 5 litre difference.)

[MrAsp]

Thanks Brian!

My fuel gauge works properly, no problem in swapping it.
Idem for the temp gauge.

Just to know... is it difficult ti replace the gears located into the speedometer?

[DHFiS]

Ciao MrAsp,

Have you replaced the wire to the plug on the differential? It is a common fault for cracks in this wire to cause the speedo to stop working.

The soldered connections in the instrument cluster can also cause intermittent electrical faults.

This link shows how to repair it.

http://www.unofficialbmw.com/speedo/speedo.htm

[MrAsp]

Ciao MrAsp,

Have you replaced the wire to the plug on the differential? It is a common fault for cracks in this wire to cause the speedo to stop working.

The soldered connections in the instrument cluster can also cause intermittent electrical faults.

This link shows how to repair it.

http://www.unofficialbmw.com/speedo/speedo.htm

Ciao DHFiS!

I didn't replace the wire, because when the instrument cluster is warm the speedo always works fine!
I think the wire is fine!

Thank you for the link regarding the soldered connections... it seems to be interesting!

I'll let you know!