Cluster removal question - searched
 

I've been searching but couldn't find the detail I'm looking for. I need to remove my guage cluster. I can pull it toward me a little bit, and have one of the two elec connectors off. The connector in the center seems to be held in place with some type of tab in the center of the connector. I've seen in another thread that there's a tab, but how does it work? I just don't want to break anything. Once I get it off, I'm sure I'll see how it works.

also, while I'm asking, how is the speedo cable held in place? I can't really see it too well (but might be able to if I get the elec connector removed).

And while I'm at it... the reason I'm removing is that my speedometer is making quite a racket. A loud squeal like the plastic gears or something inside need a little oil or something. The needle jumps around while it squeals too. It quits once the car gets warmed up (but seems to be getting worse). Anyone else get this squealing noise from the speedo?

Thanks in advance...

Been a little while since I took mine out, but I don't remember there being any tabs on the plugs. They're just VERY stiff, and have to be worked off slowly. Take a look at the connector you already got off; the other one is exactly the same. The speedo cable however should have a little tab holding it into the back of the cluster. Push down and pull.

Yes, there is a tab and it must be pressed DOWN when removing the plug.

50% chance it's not the speedo making noise but the cable.
Drizzle some oil down the cable while you have it disconnected.

Down, or in? The connector that's loose already didn't seem to have this (prob broke off by prev owner).

As far as the oil in the cable, that's the plan. Might see if there's a way to spin the speedo while it's out too, like with my dremel or something. Just has that "plastic gears" whining sound. Reminds me of some of my AFX slot cars I had as a kid. they came with a little oil dropper for just that annoyance :)

Down, definitely (I have a cluster w/ harness sitting right next to me).

Thanks! I'll give it a shot in the morning. I love it when you can't figure out how to take something apart and end up breaking it. Then you can clearly see what the hell you should/shouldn't have done to avoid breaking it. Shit is so fragile on these things as it is.

So it ended up being "up" on the center one. Maybe the clip can spin around. I think the correct answer could be "away from center" :)

On my speedometer noise, I went ahead and removed/cleaned up the back of my speedometer as best as I could. Not sure if this is factory or not, but it had a real heavy grease in the connection. thicker than wheel bearing grease. I got as much off the speedometer as I could and dropped a few drops of 3 in 1 oil in the back. I spun it with my cordless drill and it seemed pretty quiet (spins counter clockwise btw), however it may be warmed up enough from being in the house.

I'll try to do the same with the end of the speedo cable and cross my fingers.