My original instrument cluster died, to be specific the speedo died, but the odometer still functions. Since driving by Tach alone isnt the preferred method, I took my 98 to the dealer to have the cruise control issue repaired and had them take a look at the speedo. They said the whole instrument cluster had to be replaced at a parts cost of $600, and labor of $200!!!

I bought a cluster out af a wrecker and now am being told that the truck will not start if I replace the cluster? Something about having the whole PCM reset??? Since my 1998 has the mechanical odometer, cant I just swap the clusters? Or would a battery disconnect reset the PCM?

Please will someone familar with the 1998's electrical system, or a Ford mechanic answer this?

 

Hopefully someone with the answer will let me know before the weekend is over.

Thanks in advance...

 

It is a 1998 truck ( no PATS ) and "someone" is telling you it won't start without what ? The PCM has nothing to do with the cluster and PATS if that is what this "someone" is talking about.

Take a look at your key just to be sure, is it the transponder key ( bigger head on the key ) or a regular key ? 1998 should be a regular key, sans transponder.

I PATS was introduced with the digital odometer, which was 1999.

Check you key size, and the odometer type ( digital or mechanical ) to confirm non PATS. If that is the case, just swap with a 1998 cluster from a junk yard, just watch your millage on the new vs. old. Maybe take a picture of them side by side out of the truck, so you have an accurate tracking of the millage on the truck.

Let us know.

 

Thanks SSCULLY!

My odometer is mechanical not digital, and the key is the thin type. If it doesnt rain all friggin weekend I will take the dash apart and swap the clusters. The digital photo idea was what I was gonna do, so I have proof of the new mileage vs. old.

I am curious what will happen when I take it in for my CA smog check, what if they notice the miles are less than the last time I had it done?