Different cluster light prob..

[PteHoward]

G'day.

Ive been noticing that a lot of the lights on the montana seem to be burning out or seem to be loose.. Sometimes when they go out a quick flick of the finger on the guages will make them go on, or off. What I would like to do is remove the cluster and replace the burnt out ones, and tighten up the connector, but I need some tips on gettin er out.

I know you need to remove the black trim around the guages, but is that all? Or will the montana treat me to more tricks and surprises? In addition, my hot/cold backlight is dead? Is that even replaceable?

Howie

[ctesla]

Howie,
ever get your bulbs in the cluster swapped out?
just got done replacing some on a '99 as in Texas, the light are part of an inspection test.
the center console trim doesn't have to come out, but it is easier "seeing" what you're doing, plus it's easier to manuever the larger trim piece that goes from driver's side, around steering wheel and over the top center A/C-heater vents.
the center bezel has a couple of phillips screws or Torx15s inside the ashtray and the other in the cigarette/power accessory lid.
the large trim just snaps in place, a large flat blade screwdriver, chisel, or even a stiff putty knife will pry/pop the metal clips from their homes.
for the trim to come out and away, tilt wheel all the way down, turn key on(not start) and shift into L1 to get the gear shifter out of the way, and to make it a little easier, pull the tilt knob again, and put down pressure on the wheel with your forearm or leg, to get an extra 1/2" to play with.
your cluster is attached with four 7mm/T15/phillips ?
can't remember, but it will pull out just far enough to turn it sideways (back facing out the driver's door, and you have access to most illumination bulbs, and some indicators.
the bulb number is a PC74, in case you want to pre-purchase before tearing into the dash.
and parts houses will usually sell a box of ten, cheaper than purchasing individual bulbs.

good luck

[PteHoward]

Thanks for responding...

Well up here in ontario, canada we dont have yearly inspections for the safety of the vehicle, we only have inspections when you first purchase the vehicle from a dealer or private sale.. However we do have emission tests in the major cities, but in my small town we dont.. Thank god.

Thanks again for the info. Missing 1/2 of the speedo is becoming a pain... As well, does anybody know if the HVAC controls are openable? My Hot/cold light is burnt out, but I am not sure If I want to attempt ripping it apart if there is no way to get to the bulb, right.



I can see!