Gauges not working at all

[UIS Biggin]

So im trying to troubleshoot some of the gremlins in my project truck and im kinda stuck. None of the gagues in the truck work (fuel, oil pressure, voltmeter, temp and the tac) ive checked all the fuses but have not pulled the cluster out yet (its cold and raining right now lol) im thinking the cluster is bad but figured i would check here to see if im missing something stupid.

 

[RonD]

Do the back lights work?
They use a different 12v from light switch

The 12volts for the gauges comes from the ignition switch under the steering column.
When you turn the key to RUN(on) the ignition switch moves and sends 12v to some Fuse panel fuses, and then they pass that 12v on to instrument cluster.

I do not have a 1989 Ranger instrument cluster wiring diagram, but usually there are 2 or 3 connectors on the back
Each connector has a 12v power wire, they come from the same fuse, just split to 2 connectors, so if its an instrument cluster problem then usually 1/2 the gauges will work and 1/2 won't.

Other side of 12v is the Ground, no good ground means no 12v, if power can't flow then there is no power.
In most Rangers the battery is grounded to the engine, and then there is a Ground Strap from engine head to firewall, this is the Main Ground for the Cab electrics.
You mentioned "project truck" so just making sure cab still has a ground.

All body parts and frame are painted before assembly and then most sit on rubber mounts, so there is no Ground connection unless you provide it