1996 Caravan gauges

GOOD DAY
The Gauge cluster in my van goes out from time to time, also noticed some time the internal cabin light comes on and goes off by themselves without touching. I wonder whether any connections between the two . when the problem with the light occur the gauges do not work.
Have tried to use the 10 amp (memory IOD ) Pull it out & in but this did not solve the problem, even banging on the dash board will not help.

any help , advise on the possible causes please Before I venture to the instrument cluster circuit board to check for defect.

I have had g0od luck re soldering the joints on the backside of the instrument cluster where the connector plugs in. You'll have to remove the cluster and do some slight disassembly to get at the joints. Once you can see them look carefully for cracks. They will look like little circles and are sometimes hard to see. Even if you don't see them hit each one of the joints with a soldering iron to remelt the solder.

Have to agree with Airjer. Unfortunately the "bash the dash" test isn't entirely conclusive. Sometimes the bad solder joints can be there and the bash won't jar them enough. Eye's on the joints is the only sure test to verify they are good or bad. Even then you might want to reflow the joints no matter how they look. Some of the cracks can be beyond tiny. Here's a slide show on how to get at them and fix them: http://photoshow.comcast.net/rlshaull/

Beyond that you may have a Body Control Module (BCM) on it's way out. It controls most of the electronics in the van including interior lights and instruments. Does the cluster pass the self test? Hold the trip and reset buttons in with the key in run.

RIP
Your slideshow is on the pulley removal/replacement.

RIP
Your slideshow is on the pulley removal/replacement.


When you open the link you see 4 thumbnail pictures representing slideshows. The thumbnail picture labeled "98 Chrysler T&C Instrument pod repair" at lower left is the one you want.