Cluster Shift Indicator Bulb Out - Repair/Replace?

[PhoenixOp]

Removed my cluster, what a treat, need to replace odometer gears, but that is a different problem. Today's problem is the row of gear indicator lights on an '85 e24 automatic.

"D"rive is burned out. Apparently, at the factory they decided no one should replace one bulb, so they rigged it by melting it together. It seems they want one to replace the whole unit. Gimme a break!

Does anyone know if someone in the world makes a cool LED replacement for the whole thing or, the best way to get this apart without destroying it? I've already checked Garagistic, but nothing.

I am open to any and all ideas, including what NOT to do.

I wasn't real sure where to post this...

Thanks ahead,
Mike

[songzunhuang]

I'm getting pretty good at taking out the instrument cluster unfortunately.

The board with all those bulbs is not hard to access. I think I may try an replace that bulb if someone knew the specifications for the bulb.

I'll keep a watch on this thread as I would be interested to know as well.

[PhoenixOp]

Song;

I too am getting pretty good at removing the cluster. If I do it a few more times it will be on par with a Formula 1 pitstop.

Thanks,
Mike

[Ralph in Socal]

The bulb becomes fragile after burning constantly. I rob other cluster boards for the bulbs and solder the replacement in. I have spares but am currently out of town.


Ralph

[PhoenixOp]

Ralph;

My biggest question is how to seperate the board from the plastic holder wirhout destroying everything, then how to reassemble it so it doesn't fall apart. The soldering part doesn't worry me, it's the other things that will get you.

If you can spare a couple of bulbs, I would be interested.

Also, If you happen to have an extra speedo, I would be interested in that also. When I bought the car the needle and post were broken off. Surprisingly the odometer works great. Still going to change the gears though.

Thanks again Ralph,
Mike

[songzunhuang]

Ralph;

My biggest question is how to seperate the board from the plastic holder wirhout destroying everything, then how to reassemble it so it doesn't fall apart. The soldering part doesn't worry me, it's the other things that will get you.

If you can spare a couple of bulbs, I would be interested.

Also, If you happen to have an extra speedo, I would be interested in that also. When I bought the car the needle and post were broken off. Surprisingly the odometer works great. Still going to change the gears though.

Thanks again Ralph,
Mike

Mike, I don't think it's that fragile. I took mine out and looked at it. I was working on the speedo and odometer at the time so I didn't stop and mess with it much, however; I didn't ever get the impression that it was fragile or hard. If I could get a replacement bulb, it'd be no big deal to re-solder a new bulb in.

So crazy that they want $280 OEM price and elsewhere on the web it's like $200 still. What the heck?!

[Ralph in Socal]

Cost of replacement is why I started harvesting bulbs and boards. Spares to both of you when I get back. Very simple to do the soldering and it does come apart easily.


Ralph

[PhoenixOp]

Thanks Ralph;

Enjoy your time away, looking forward to hearing from you upon your return.

Thanks again,
Mike

[C51 SEN]

Hi Guys, I know its an incredibly old post. I've taken out my gear indicator board but can't get the solder to stick, is there some sort of protective wax on the board?

[northNH]

Working when removed,
For Sale, at going rate or B/O
Free shipping.
Michael

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[sansouci]

Look at Song's post of 11/19/19 for replacement of the indicator bulbs