Instrument cluster remaval

[greg111110]

Hi guys
I'm new here and this is my first post. I'm having problems with my 71 SE Charger my fuel and temp gauges aren't working but my ammeter is working. I'm trying to take the whole cluster out so I can get to the instruments for testing but I can't seem to get the cluster out. Is there a process where I have to undo the steering column or something else?
If anyone can help me in perhaps a step by step guide that would be appreciated . Thanks all

[XH29N0G]

Someone here with a 3rd generation will be able to help.  With a 2nd generation (70 and earlier), there are nuts that hold the steering column up to the dash.  These can be loosened or removed to let the column drop down which gives enough space to tilt the cluster down.  If this is the case for the 3rd generation, cover the steering column with a towel because the cluster can scratch it.

UPDATE:  I did a quick search for a 1971 factory service manual and was not successful.  I did find a 1973 version online at http://www.retrorarities.com/ChargerInfo.htm and in this one, there is a section on removing the cluster.  It also has the steering wheel dropped.  If you don't already have a service manual, it is worth either finding an electronic version or buying one.

[greg111110]

Hey old timer,
Thanks so much for that link. If I have some time next week im going to give it a go 

[Bronzedodge]

The speedometer cable usually holds the tightest - unhook it first and you'll get some movement.  After you loosen and drop the column of course.   

[Pete in NH]

Hi,

Welcome to the group. Do you have an oil pressure gauge or light? If you have a light and neither the fuel or temperature gauge work it your problem may be a bad instrument voltage regulator. I would do some checking before trying to pull the dash cluster. The instrument voltage regulator (IVR) is an electro-mechanical device the changes 12 volts down to 5 volts. When they fail the gauges stop working or a bad IVR can burn out your gauges. If you have a test voltmeter a simple check is to disconnect the temperature sensor on the engine and put the negative meter lead to the engine block and the positive lead into the open sensor wire. With the ignition key in the run position you should see the voltmeter show pulsing readings, if it shows a steady 12 volts the IVR is bad. If the meter shows nothing it could be a Bad IVR, burnt out gauge or open wiring. But, i would do some checking before removing the dash cluster as you can replace the IVR without taking the dash apart.

[greg111110]

Hi Pete and thanks for the welcome.
Im pretty sure it is my IVR thats buggered. I pulled the fuel sensor plug off the other day and got no voltage there. thats why im trying to pull the dash out, to check the IVR. If its possible to replace it with the cluster in place let me know please., thatd be great not having to pull the cluster out.
THanks once again
Greg111110

[Pete in NH]

Greg,

You should be able to access the IVR by removing the radio from the lower dash. The radio comes out quite easily, pull the knobs off and use a deep socket to remove the mounting nuts. There will also be a separate nut going through a rear bracket. Disconnect the antenna lead and power connector and the whole radio will drop out the bottom of the dash. You can now get your hand in there and remove the IVR which is below the temperature gauge and ammeter. The IVR plugs into the dash printed circuit board with three wide pins. All this is much easier than pulling the dash cluster.

You can get the same type of electro-mechanical IVR or upgrade to a newer all electronic type. Check out RTE Engineering for the electronic type.

Good luck and Happy New Year.