Okay so the problem is on a 2000 f150 4.2L. I recently fixed my odometer screen
when it went out. I pulled the panel out of the dash and soldered the bad
connection. A week later I was driving along and the needles began jumping
back and forth followed by a huge plume of smoke coming out of the dash. All
the instruments went dead and the back lights went out as well. The radio
screen and lights flashed for a little bit but the next time I started the truck
they worked fine. I was hoping I wouldn't have to replace my instrument panel
before but now I'm hoping the solution is that simple. Any suggestions?

 

Okay I've been reading up on this issue and it would seem that the problem will be as easy as replacing the cluster. My new problem is that they're impossible to find. Is there anywhere I can get one that isn't at a junkyard?

 

Here at the dealership we use united radio or aer technologies, but they cost a lot and charge you core. but look into them if im not mistaken they will sell to private parties. they will ask you for mileage and problem with the cluster. so have that handy

 

If your swapping in a used OEM gauge cluster - i don't think it will be a plug and play deal. PATS will cause you trouble and i think you have to tow the truck to a dealer so they can marry everything together. Once you plug it in i don't think the truck will start.

 

^nope

 

PATS is a bitch when it comes to this. Yes, you're gonna need to flash a new/used cluster to your truck or you are dead in the water, bub.

 

Okay my dad managed to find a used cluster for 80$ somewhere and it's currently in the mail. I had no idea they ran the PATS stuff through that cluster so I guess that's the next thing I'll need to sort out. Would I end up just taking it in to any Ford dealer once I've made the swap? Also, the day after my cluster went out my A/C decided to stop working as well. Is that a symptom of the bad cluster?

 

The fact that I know what the luigi death stare is scares me. Lol they shouldnt need anything but the vin and a dealer should be fine to do it. They shouldnt need the truck if you can swap them up yourself.

 

Yeah, Ford dealer is your only choice. PATS was used in these trucks from 1999-2003, so a cluster swap for a 1997-1998 was super simple.

 

They see me rollin'... dey hatin'... better watch your back for the deathly stare that falls upon you...