message Center question... not your typical question...

[VDub2625]

I installed a Message Center in my '97 Sport. It works all fine and dandy. But, I had a question about the display.

There is a separate, 8-segment display above the regular 3-line dot matrix, set up to look like a clock. I've never seen this display come to life, except for the brief moment during initial power-up (display test or what-have-you).

What are all the functions of the Message Center? So far, I've found the following, through regular button-pushing:

DTE/Gallons remaining
MPG/Instant MPG
Miles Driven/Gallons consumed
Systems Check

Is there some sort of secret test function? Maybe a function not used on the '95 Message Center I have, but available on later models? The only running change I know of for the MC is the deletion of the Lamp-Out module in '98.

Thanks!

 

[01EB5.0]

i've seen that too and often wondered if it was for a european model or something?

 

[EMG7895]

It may be something used in another vehicle. A lot of times displys are designed to fit many different products even though some parts will never be used.

 

[AJRK]

I also wondered about that until I took a ride in a late '90's Lincoln MKVIII which had the same message center as our Explorers but with a clock at the top. I don't know if it can be activated in our vehicles but it would be cool if we could.

 

[Ranger482]

How hard was his to install? I was thinnking of doing it to my 98 xlt but i never did since i figured it couldnt be done as far as the wires and plug-ins matching, but are there just simple plugs that you connect? I would love to hear how you did this if dont mind posting. Just seems neet to actually be able to see your range and mpg, etc.

thanks,

 

[CDW6212R]

That is a moderate project to do, but there is another solution. Most people know of the Scangauge, it plugs into the OBDII port and displays codes, four PCM parameters at a time, most all of those same message center items. I've got mine running constantly in my 99 work truck, soon I will mount it inside of the glovebox. Regards,

 

[aeaglenfitch]

yeah i've been wondering the same question, how hard is it to add the mesage center? are there already wires up there that just need to be plugged into or what?

 

[VDub2625]

You need to run a few wires. It's not too difficult. One wire to the ECU, 3 to the cluster (fuel, temp, and tach gauges), ground, constant and switched power are all you need to get basic function. You could also go the extra mile and get the oil level/temp sensor and washer fluid sensor like I did, so it all works correctly.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=677621#post677621

I'll have to take a closer look at the board,s ee if there is a trace that could b soldered or something

 

[NICE59FORDF100]

Anyone ever figured out how to turn the clock on in these things? Thanks!

 

[NICE59FORDF100]

well looks like ill go pull one out of a mark viii and compare, although they are wired identically save for the addition of a positive and negative compass input. The only other thing is the switch control is very different from the explorer. In addition to the buttons the explorer has, it has a clock, compass, and a driver/vehicle info button.
Posted via Mobile Device

 

[steve101]

sry i know this is old.
anyone figured this out?