Cluster swap problem

[e21pilot]

I found a nice low miles 1994 Explorer cluster in a local yard and decided to swap it into my 1992 Ranger. I looks very similar and fits and connects exactly but the fuel and temp gauges aren't working properly and none of the instrument cluster lights work.

I assumed all the 89-94 clusters were compatible since they look the same. Wondering if anyone has successfully got a 94 cluster to work in a 89-92 and what if anything extra that had to do to get it to work.

The 94 cluster I found had an extra digit odometer and I like the white digits over the green ones in my 92.

 

[scotts90ranger]

The problem is that in mid '92 they changed the gauge wiring, the gauge housings are all the same but they changed the wiring then for some reason... Yours is apparently a early '92... you can tell the difference by the color of the printed circuit board on the back but I don't think we ever got all 4 of the colors into the same post back in the day, look for a tach cluster that has a different color cluster than what you have.

 

[Mazda]

The 94 Clusters will only work with a 1994. As far as I remember when I tried to change mine over years and years ago. Bought several pre 94 clusters of E-Bay before I figured this out actually with help from this site. See if where you got it from Junk Yard or wherever if you can exchange it for a 89-93 cluster. Also a little tip. If you want your millage to match up don't advance the odometer with a drill from the back of the cluster. Do it at a very low speed down at the trans with the cable. This way you will not get the needle bounce that will show up if you do it the other way. This is only for advancing the odometer as it is against the law to turn on back. Anyway who the hell would want to show they have less miles on their Ranger. lol

Also when you do get the one that fits. Go ahead and replace all the bulbs that way you wont have to pull it out again.

 

[scotts90ranger]

easiest way to match the odometers is just to swap them, take the clear part off then pry the outer gauges out then the speedo slides out, swap it with your original one and reassemble...

I'm 99% sure the break is mid '92, not '94