ronarndt

I took the cover off my 93 FD so I could go get it inspected and then park it again for the winter. I have been keeping a log book of dates and mileage of significant events, so I was going to record the mileage, except....................the odometer was blank. No orange numerals at all. Last time I drove it, the odometer worked. I checked all fuses and could not find any blown. Is there a backlight for the numbers or are they LCD, LED or something. Anyone have this happen and have a fix?

Gen2n3

iTrader: (1)

ronarndt,

This topic is extensively covered. Search for the "just got done figuring out how to fix an FD odometer" or use this link here for additional info: https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-gen-gene...en2n3-1120534/

Cheers,
George

P.S. Nice photos you posted in the Red FD photo section. I also like your vanity plate - it is very easy to remember!

ronarndt

Thanks, George. I did see the multiple posts for the odometer circuit board, but most focus on specs of the various capacitors, diodes, etc. I'm not an electrical engineer and they were not helpful. I have a Ph.D. in microbiology and have worked with hundreds of complex electronic devices over the last 40 years, but when something goes wrong, I call a technician to fix the problem. I was hoping for a straight-forward answer, such as " replace part xxx" or something like that. Sounds like I need to remove the odometer board and send it to someone to fix.
RA

Gen2n3

iTrader: (1)

Ron,

Glad to help. I could help you further in its repair. When does your car's inspection expire - at the end of Nov? Are you concerned about the odometer working for inspection purposes and/or documenting mileage? I have a narrow slot of time available next week to lend a hand if you'd like. I may have some spare (new) capacitors floating around that could be used. Are you willing to remove the cluster and take some photos of the speedo board? I would gather from your response that you are not very comfortable with or lack soldering experience. Am I correct?

The posts to repair a blank odometer could be a bit overwhelming. Most of the time, capacitor C3 is the high failure component. However, more capacitors may need to be replaced dependent on each speedometer. Therefore a good visual inspection of the board is required. The "just got done..." thread walks you through removal of the cluster and hood, instrument cluster disassembly, and speedometer assembly removal.

In short, I offer some on-site help if you are willing to do some initial disassembly. If you would like to post any pics of your speedo board, please post it here: https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generati...1118446/page2/ Feel free to PM me so we may iron out any details if you wish to proceed.

Cheers,
George

ronarndt

Thanks, George. The inspection station put on the new sticker without being able to document the mileage, but I would like to get the odometer fixed, since everything else on the car works. I have a major suspension upgrade to do on my Corvette before I work on the FD. I'll touch base with you when I get the speedo out of the car. I'm OK with doing the soldering. I had to replace the entire wiring harness and all gauges on my Corvette, so while I do not enjoy electric work on cars, I can do it if needed.

Gen2n3

iTrader: (1)

Ron,

Shoot me a PM when you are ready to tackle the odo project. I'll be happy to help. Changing out a wire harness isn't as delicate as soldering components on a circuit board. Please use caution when handling the speedo assembly outside of the instrument cluster. The gauge face must also be de-soldered from the rest of the board in order to see all the components underneath. If you plan on soldering on your own then use care when wielding a solder iron because damage to the board or other components may occur with an errant solder iron or from excessive heat transfer.

As a reminder, the odometer typically does not record mileage when this discrepancy exists.

Cheers,
George