996 guage cluster

[bustingear]

When I purchased my 1999 used 996 the LCD for the odometer was not lit.

When you got close you could read the mileage

I followed the instructions for cluster removal and moved some of the bulbs around to see if that would work. I also tried to get the cluster apart but unsuccessfully. I partially separated it at the base but when it would not open at the top I stopped.

After I put it back together none of the lcds are lit but everything else seems ok. Any ideas?

[bustingear]

Just read some more and found out how to open the cluster so I took it apart again and went deeper. Got it open without any damage.

Now the digital speedo works and I lost some of the left side illumination around the speedo with the needle. I can't understand this thing. What could be up with this inconsistent power?

Ps 1999 996 cabriolet

[bustingear]

I also wonder f this is where the dura metric would help? Since I have not used one yet I really do not know

[logray]

Durametric would not help here, this boils down to electical.

If you are having bulb issues (guages work, but they are just dim)...

There are two things I would check.

1.) the condition of the bulbs and the quality of their connection to the boards. I've found bending some of the contacts on the bulbs helps, but this is VERY precise work, you really need a magnafying glass or stand to do this properly.

2.) ensure proper connection of the three large multi-wire connectors at the rear of the cluster.

If you are having LCD issues, then unfotunately the best course of action is to find a used unit and replace the parts (or just replace the whole cluster, which might require a PST2/PIWIS)..