Temp/Heading Module and Power Antenna Issues 95 Explorer

[Caleb230CH]

I got the Explorer like this and I am slowly fixing the small stuff on her.

This gauge lights on when key on engine off every now and then. Other than that, it will not light up any other time.
Would there be any small reason I could fix it or would y'all just suggest on not being cheap and just buy a new one?

 

[traveler]

I believe there is a thread on here with instructions on how to fix it. I just replaced mine with one from a salvage yard.

 

[toypaseo]

Here is the thread @traveler mentioned, I believe.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/index.php?threads/overhead-console-display-fix.187953/

I used those directions to repair a display in a 2000(?) F-150.

Link added 03/20/17 5:01pm

 

[Caleb230CH]

Would you mind posting the link towards this thread? I can't seem to find it.

My only question is if this would be something I could even repair if someone has had this issue before?
If not I will just replace it.

 

[toypaseo]

Oops... I forgot to post it...

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/index.php?threads/overhead-console-display-fix.187953/

I've done the repair twice on the The F-150 I mentioned. I didn't think it would even work after the second repair, but it functions correctly for now. I might snag one from the junkyard for it, just incase a third repair is not possible. The circuit board should be dirt cheap without any of the console body.

 

[96eb96]

The early units (like ours) have a circuit board with much more components than the later models. This is common in the electronics field to save cost, a bunch of components may be integrated into a microcontroller or PLA. The fix may not apply for the pre 98 or 97 units. Mine had issues with the compass reading only in one direction. I looked at the board and it was intact with nothing missing. The next step would be solder reflow - you can try with a heat gun or there are special devices to do this. I found a NOS one for 30$ and installed it. The board was very different as well as the maplights (mine had wires. new one had some sort of printed board). I may have made a small change to the wiring but it works fine.

 

[traveler]

Be wary, those Printed Boards as you called them that power the overhead lights are fragile! They tear and/or come loose very easily. Mine were worthless. Fortunately when I found a salvage compass and thermometer, the same unit also had good lights in it.

 

[Caleb230CH]

After reading what the solution in the link provided @toypaseo. I believe I can take this apart and see if I find any issues with it. If not I will take it down to a local electronic repair shop and see what they can do with it. If anything I will just go to the junkyard and take my chances with what they have. On a side note that is off topic to this thread while this is up. The power antenna does not go up or down. Could this be a separate fuse or does the power antenna work with the radio? If with the radio what would the most likely cause for of the power antenna to go up?

Thank you for the info!

 

[Spuddy]

Check fuse #1 & #28 for the power antenna.
#1 also does your power mirrors and seats.
#28 is probably good, because that one also does the radio and the GEM.

Other than that, there's only an orange w/ blue stripe turn-on wire from the radio to the antenna.

And, I have an extra compass/temperature module in my hand. I had to replace my broken printed circuit board wires to the map lights. So I pulled a good-looking console at the junkyard and disassembled it for the map lights. I did test this display and it is blue and works well. I'll start a private conversation to see if you want it.

 

[96eb96]

After reading what the solution in the link provided @toypaseo. I believe I can take this apart and see if I find any issues with it. If not I will take it down to a local electronic repair shop and see what they can do with it. If anything I will just go to the junkyard and take my chances with what they have. On a side note that is off topic to this thread while this is up. The power antenna does not go up or down. Could this be a separate fuse or does the power antenna work with the radio? If with the radio what would the most likely cause for of the power antenna to go up?

Thank you for the info!

My 96 has a module behind the rear right trim that activates the antenna. That may be because of the JBL stereo. I believe the antenna stops rising by detecting high current flow when it is fully extended. If the actual antenna sections are corroded (not uncommon) the power will shut off instantly. You can start exploring by removing the black antenna cap on the right side fender then removing the nut. The nut could be very tricky to remove because it may be corroded as well. The mast is inexpensive to replace.

 

[Caleb230CH]

@96eb96 I as well have the JBL stereo system. My antenna is stuck in the down position and will not go up. I believe the person who owned it before me had an aftermarket antenna that they drilled a hole on the roof. They took the antenna off. It did at one point have an XM radio that they more than likely had an aftermarket head unit. I guess I will just have to take the center console, rear right trim, and the antenna cap as you said and take it one step at a time. Does the cap just snap off?

Also, if I install an audio system into it. Are there any kits that would work with the antenna module, sub, rear seat unit controller for the original head unit, and even the cd changer inside the console?