Please Help Cluster Illumination

[kitt1993]

Hello Everyone..

Its been a while since I have been here. I got a issues with a 2000 Explorer Eddie Bower 2wd. The cluster lights that illuminate the gauges do not work. I took the cluster out and checked all 5 bulbs with 12v dc. All worked. I was told the Headlight switch is most likely the cause. I got a new one from the store and no help. I tried to find a wiring diagram of the dimmer switch and no luck. I was thinking it could be the dimmer, how ever the overhead console and message center seem to function correctly when I move the thumb wheel. I have power on both sides of fuses 11 15 and the one under the hood.

Any suggestions??

Thanks,

Bryan

 

[ntex]

To me that sounds like the electrical connector that plugs in to the rear of the instrument cluster is not quite making contact with the circuit panel.

 

[kitt1993]

To me that sounds like the electrical connector that plugs in to the rear of the instrument cluster is not quite making contact with the circuit panel.

I was thinking the same thing believe it or not. Do you know which wire I should check for power at? I was hoping that I could move the board in a position where I could get a volt meter behind it and see if its power or ground that I am missing...

Finally, In other Fords that I have owned, are these clusters known for having any loose solder joints? Could it be a LCM or GEM box? I looked under the dash and couldn't find one... My guess is that is hidden behind something.

Thanks in advance,

Bryan

 

[ntex]

I have been through all wiring schematics i have and the oldest covers the 2003, but the color codes differ but the wires on each end of the connector that plugs into the cluster go to the lighting circuit. Not much help,sorry.

 

[SoNic67]

Try this: Auto - Online Repair Info
http://search.ebscohost.com/
ID: rrcc
PW: rebsco
Select: Auto Repair Reference Center
Fill in: Find Your Vehicle
Follow prompts down to Wiring Diagrams.

 

[20014.0xlt]

I have the same problem too. loose wiring, or dimmer switch?

 

[fast_dave]

The Dimmer Wheels goes bad.

I have one that has been going the past two years.

Where I notice it has the most effect is the clock readout on the stock radio.

I'll be night driving and will notice that the time readout goes slightly dim.

So I'll move the dimmer, and the clock readout (and instrument cluster) will brighten right up.