Gauge cluster

[DNFXDLI]

Ok..tried searching this and couldn't find it. Regarding the gauge cluster in my 79...I have the idiot lights for the oil and ammeter, is the wiring harness the same for gauges/idiot lights...I assume the backing plate is different for the two clusters.

 

[Fordzilla80]

Ok..tried searching this and couldn't find it. Regarding the gauge cluster in my 79...I have the idiot lights for the oil and ammeter, is the wiring harness the same for gauges/idiot lights...I assume the backing plate is different for the two clusters.

On the 7th gen trucks, nope. The 6th gen is pretty similar, so I'm betting it's the same for you. There's a special shunt in one of the wiring harnesses that regulates power, or something along those lines. When you use a Ammeter/Oil gauge cluster in an idiot light truck, i'm pretty sure you risk all the voltage from the battery going straight to the ammeter and causing a fire. I may have this a little mixed up, so don't quote it exactly.

Either way, gauges will not work with an idiot light truck, and vice versa unless you swap the cab wiring harness, including the in dash and charging harness.

 

[DNFXDLI]

That is what I thought..thanks Shaun!

 

[Fordzilla80]

No Problem. If you want the whole technical aspect of it, I know a guy on the other site that has this memorized due to all those who think they can throw a gauge cluster in an idiot light truck.

 

[DNFXDLI]

Nah..but thanks. I'm putting aftermarket gauges in anyway...just figured I would check while I had everything apart.