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2.3L ('83-'97) Dash warning lights don’t work


mdiiorio

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Hello,
So I just replaced the cluster in my 1995 Ford Ranger, the new cluster is a 1997. I noticed that when I put in the new cluster certain lights stopped lighting up. This would include the ebrake light, the abs light (that was on with the other cluster), the check engine light, and others. The only lights that actually light up when I turn the ignition for the test is the battery light and airbag light. All other lights work perfectly and all my gauges work great. Anyone know why this might be?
Thanks,
Mike
 


gaz

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Hello,

Perhaps check the bulbs again ..)
 

tomw

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Bulbs or the printed circuit on the back of the cluster is different. The sockets that hold the bulbs make contact with the circuit when they are inserted into the opening and twisted CW. If there is corrosion or wear, poor contact can be another cause. Final cause would be the actual connectors that connect the cluster to the wire loom. They can be a bit finicky when inserted, and again, make poor contact.
I would first compare the circuit layout to the original. It could be different. You can trace back from the individual bulb to the point where the truck wires connect to see if the bulbs in question match the original layout. If they do match, it is likely bulb/socket/connector problems, otherwise it is going to need surgery.
tom
 

scotts90ranger

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I just did a tach cluster swap on my '97 and at first the left turn signal indicator didn't work, a couple days of driving around and it started working again...
 

RonD

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1995 had a few different wires than 1996 to 2003

You will need to re-pin most of the wires, they are all there just in the wrong spots
If it looks like too much then look for a 1995 cluster and sell the 1997

Below are the diagrams for 1995 and 1997 Ranger clusters
 

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scotts90ranger

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4WD
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6
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So the check gauge lamp is just connected to the slosh module? Interesting, that's why it goes on at just a couple gallons of fuel left... happen to have the one for a '00?
 

RonD

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Should be same as 1997, 1996 to 2003 are plug and play
 

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