Tips to unplug gauge cluster?

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Apr 26, 2015 | 07:16 PM

GISguy

Thread Starter

Intermediate

Joined: Jun 2014

Posts: 385

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From: VA

Tips to unplug gauge cluster?

Unplugging the cluster on my '95 seems near impossible as the three connectors are really on there tight. Is there a trick to getting them off? I've got a whole pack of LEDs waiting to go in.

Also, does anyone know what pins on what harness can be used to power up (with 12V I assume) and turn on the needles? I have a spare cluster from a '92 and I might switch a needle or two in case the other one is still fully lit. It would be convenient to use a computer power supply to put the cluster on a test bench and figure it out, but none of the threads I've found in search seem to help.

Apr 26, 2015 | 10:15 PM

t2d2

Lead Lap

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I tried pulling and prying with everything I could and never succeeded in disconnecting mine. I felt like any more effort would have resulted in significant damage. They're in there so tight, the plastic parts of the plugs were starting to crack from prying them out while depressing the tabs.

Apr 27, 2015 | 07:43 AM

jennie

Pole Position

Joined: Dec 2007

Posts: 309

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From: california

Press the tabs down with a flathead. The trick is to make sure there's some slack on the harness when you're pressing on the tab.

Apr 27, 2015 | 07:49 AM

SC400slide

In Recovery Mode

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From: NM

Just make sure the steering wheel is all the way down and out. If your tilt steering doesn't work, you'll have to fix the tilt mechanism before removing the cluster. Otherwise, get a pointy tool and push in and pry...

Apr 27, 2015 | 10:09 AM

CatManD3W

Pole Position

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From: Pittsburgh, PA

I used needle nose pliers to grab ahold of the plug and press down the clip at the same time....The first time they are a little difficult to get out but after that it is a little easier...

It is literally impossible to get them out by hand....

Apr 27, 2015 | 10:52 AM

Ali SC3

Lexus Champion

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Joined: Oct 2007

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From: CO

tiny screwdriver and push down on the plug. way too difficult to get them out by hand. needle nose pliers sound like a good idea also but try not to crush the plug.