Instrument cluster noise ?

[57chevyragtop]

02 3.4 64k base...Just began to do this Monday, temp outside was 16 deg. went to start car and there was this servo type noise in cluster. Engine did not start first try. Did same on second try but started fine. Then I noticed this noise happens now every time I either turn the key on...turn the key to start and after the the car starts it makes this noise again. so it makes this noise twice when starting. Also when I shut it off. Dealer says cluster needs to be replaced and printed out service bullitin document ID #1870974 Bullitin #04-08-49-015A (section 08--Body and Accessories) that covers this subject for 2003 and up (mine is 02). Initial Startup (gages zero/reset) engine off (gages reset to zero)
Please respond if you have any thoughts or know of solution different the dealer suggestion. If you know of a reasonable priced cluster. I will write out entire bullitin if needed...

Dave

[adamace1]

I have noticed a servo type noise in my dash cluster when my car is running over a year ago. I just though it was the gauges making the noise, and haven't thought to do anything about it.

[57chevyragtop]

Originally Posted by adamace1

I have noticed a servo type noise in my dash cluster when my car is running over a year ago. I just though it was the gauges making the noise, and haven't thought to do anything about it.

I'll quote here from bullitin "Condition...Some customers may comment on a noise from the instrument panel cluster (IPC) while driving or on initial startup. Instrument clusters may contain stepper motor gages that can make noise during the folowing conditions:
*Initial startup (gages zero/reset)
*Gage ascending and descending (gage sweeping)
*Engine idle (tachometer ticking)
*Engine of (gages reset to zero)

Cause...The cause of this noise may come from the instrument cluster gages, which contain stepper motors. As the gage pointer moves, rotors and gears inside the stepper motors are rapidly rotated and rubbing one another. It is natural to generate mechanical noise due to all the gear movement. However, it will not in any way affect the performance and durability of the cluster.

Correction: For vehicles built or clusters remanufactured on or after March 1, 2005, DO NOT exchange the IPC for a noise only concern. As of March 1, 2005, all stepper motor improvements are in place and noise from the cluster is within acceptable performance. Any remaining noise from the IPC is inherent to the system design and replacing the cluster for just a noise concern will more than likely result in a similar noise. Please inform the customer the IPC is performing within the acceptable guideline. If after the customer has been informed and still insist to replace the cluster, then the cluster should be replaced.

For vehicles built or remanufactured prior to March 1, 2005, the clusters should be replaced for noise concern.

Clusters should continue to be replaced for any concern affecting the functionality of the IPC.

Cluster exchange units can be obtained from an authorized Electronic Service Center.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: Labor Operation...N4180

[57chevyragtop]

I was hoping for more responses on this subject. However while waiting I have noticed that there is more to add...As this noise occurs there is also some clicking or ticking type noise (sounds like electrical spark) coming from the pass side dash. Wether under dash or in pass side eletrical center is not yet determined. Could this be a relay going bad? No functional affects so far.