Ok, I need some guidance. My Lightning had the common odometer display issue. I pulled the instrument cluster and made the repairs to the solder pins just like I did several years ago. Only now when I replaced the cluster I get only dashes and a no start. Cranks really good. PATS system works as designed. The instrument cluster lights up as usual. Only the check engine light comes on. No codes when plugged into the OBDII port. Using a 12v light to test circuits I have voltage at all fuses and relays. I have checked and replaced the PCM relay as well. The fuel pump relay is not getting a signal to come on when cranking. I tested this circuit by taking an old relay apart and manually closing the relay and the fuel pump comes on and fuel pressure at the rail. I replaced the ignition switch with a new one just in case I had a bad one. Throwing parts at it I guess. I took the PCM to an independent rebuilder that was 120 miles from me and they tested it and said it had communication but could not say if it was good or bad data if that makes any sense. The diodes to power the PCM in the under hood tested good using OHM’s meter. Put the PCM back in and still no start. I even removed the cluster several times and put back in just to be sure I didn’t make a mistake. How can I get this sorted out? I will do anything but take it to a dealer. Only one down here and they suck. Thanks for any help or suggestions. I’m a good mechanic but electrical gremlins are my weak spot. Sorry the truck is a 2002. Checked all grounds as well. I also confirmed the truck will not start with the cluster removed which it should be able to do. Just trying to eliminate the cluster repair I made.

 

Well, you only had the issue AFTER you worked on the cluster. I would pull the cluster one more time and send it to those who REBUILD them before I started touching everything else.
I repaired my cluster myself as well and it still gives me problems sometimes
Wished I sent mine in back then. I may anyway.

 

Normally, odometer dashes and no start is resolved with a new PCM relay. If that didn't work then it becomes more complex.

Since the dealership is not an option for you, I see no other way to diagnose a cluster repair problem. The only solutions I see are to send it in for repair or find a replacement.. A replacement may need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle...at the dealership......

But, others may have a wizard like solution and chime in.

 

I’m not sure that the cluster is the problem but want to be sure. My research tells me that these trucks are able to be started w/o the cluster installed which is what I tried. Am I wrong on the no cluster start theory? Any recommendations for a cluster repair place?

 

97-98 may be able to start without the cluster in since they don’t use PATS.

Digital odometers (PATS) can’t handshake with the ignition transceiver if not in place.

 

https://circuitboardmedics.com/ford-...gn=ford_trucks

 

https://unitedradio.com

 

Update: I took the advice here and sent the cluster to Circuit Board Medics for inspection and repair. Just finished installing the repaired part and truck started right up. Best $180 I spent. I’m stubborn and did not want to believe I did something wrong. Thanks again everyone.