'88 ZX analog dash gauges stopped working
1988 300ZX (Z31) with analog dash---All dash gauges (tach, speedo, fuel, oil, temp, etc) have stopped functioning (backlights are still on tho). All needles are frozen. No blown fuses in the interior panel(lower left or drvers side by door) are blown. What else should I look for?? Since 'fusible link issues' seems to be the most popular answer on other sites(??), should I assume it is one of the three links in little box near battery?? If so, which one and/or how do I check to see which link is blown?? I am a senior so simple, non-techy answers (and step by step instructions, if possible) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks ahead of time.
Cars & Trucks
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I found a web page with a good amount of help for your problem. I personally cannot help you.
Visit http://www.youfixcars.com/repairing-car-electronics.html
Thank you for the url link. It might take me a while to digest the info to ther point that I could apply it, but I'll definitely be the wiser for trying.but
to monteham mons--I'll have to find the wiring diagram and/or the fuse labels/designations somewhere. The guage fuses are not listed as such, near as I can tell. 'Preciate the feedback, though. Sounds logical.
The circuit for the gauges may be turned on by the ignition relay-probably near the fuse panel-on a Sentra (1987), the ignition relay is just above the fuse box there. I had a bad relay, so no gauges, replaced relay and gauges came back. The relay is turned on by the key on, then sends power to part of the fuse panel-the part with the gauges fuse on it. To check this, see if the gauge fuse has power on it with key on. If no power, possibly the ignition relay. Just sort of guessing here, as I don't have a wiring diagram for your car.
I do not think it would be a fuse link issue. Each fuse link supplies a broader range of power distribution, although if you have a black colored fuse link, it may be either for the fuse block or for the battery/alternator. Again, just guessing without a wiring diagram. You can check any fuse link with a continuity test, like with an ohmmeter (a multi meter set to ohms). If fuse link is good, it will have continuity-will show low resistance (low ohm value) between the two terminals.
Much appreciated. It's coming up on 3:15 AM here (Okanagan Valley BC) and it's getting down to -8C so the hands are a tad stiff at this point. I'm gonna call it a night and get back at it in the AM. Will let you know what I find. Thanks again.
Montehammons: rstcrat1 Just wanted to let you know that--after following your excellent tips---the dash cluster problem has been resolved. Thanks so much for all your help.