gauge problem in '86 camaro

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Jul 29, 2011 | 12:36 AM

astephens830

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gauge problem in '86 camaro

so when i first bought my '86 Camaro, the battery was being drained when the car was off, and we fixed that problem. now Ive gone to the inside of the car and the gauges aren't working correctly. when i push the gas down, the RPM's aren't going anywhere and when i turn on the headlights and stuff, it shows my battery gauge go all the way down but doesn't die. i know there is a bad ground or wire somewhere but does anyone have any suggestions? i believe i got a used speedometer from an '89 Camaro and still isnt working. and these gauges are in way better shape. is it possible that it is the newer speedometer i got? please post any suggestions thank you

Jul 29, 2011 | 12:41 AM

camarosrock1989

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From: Arizona

Car: 1989 Camaro RS--

Engine: MPFI

Transmission: 700r4

Re: gauge problem in '86 camaro

bump, having some of same problems. I think mine might be the Alternator, thats my next fix. I had a wire on back side of alt that was messed up. replaced it and it help. Now having same problem you are.

Jul 29, 2011 | 07:27 AM

JamesC

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From: Lawrence, KS

Car: Met. Silver 85 IROC/Sold

Engine: 350 HO Deluxe (350ci/330hp)

Transmission: T-5 (Non-WC)

Axle/Gears: Limited Slip 3.23's

Re: gauge problem in '86 camaro

Quote:

Originally Posted by astephens830

i believe i got a used speedometer from an '89 Camaro and still isnt working. and these gauges are in way better shape. is it possible that it is the newer speedometer i got?

If the cluster/speedo has been replaced, it's possible that the OP didn't re-seat it properly. I'd loosen the cluster and try pushing it into place. I'd also verify that the cable is attached to the cluster. Can't hurt.

JamesC

Jul 29, 2011 | 07:29 AM

JamesC

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iTrader: (5)

Joined: Aug 1999

Posts: 19,282

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From: Lawrence, KS

Car: Met. Silver 85 IROC/Sold

Engine: 350 HO Deluxe (350ci/330hp)

Transmission: T-5 (Non-WC)

Axle/Gears: Limited Slip 3.23's

Re: gauge problem in '86 camaro

Quote:

Originally Posted by astephens830

i believe i got a used speedometer from an '89 Camaro and still isnt working. and these gauges are in way better shape. is it possible that it is the newer speedometer i got?

Jan 15, 2016 | 10:14 PM

Z28IrocMike

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Joined: Jan 2016

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Re: gauge problem in '86 camaro

I'm looking to get this cluster. Is there a step by step guide to installing? Or are there any electricians out there that could help with the install?

Jan 18, 2016 | 05:19 PM

James Sutton

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From: Des Moines, Iowa

Car: 1991 Camaro RS yellow

Engine: was '91 V6, now '89 5.7/355 TPI

Transmission: 4 speed automatic

Axle/Gears: Moser 3.73 with zexel posi

Re: gauge problem in '86 camaro

The GM shop manual for your model would tell you how to do it. It's worth buying one, because they cover almost everything. They're available on line.

Taking the cluster out is involved, because you have to take out the noise panel and the knee bolster and the frame around the cluster. You have to do some of this upside down. The toughest part is getting tools together, because all the fasteners are different. And, of course, you have to disconnect the battery, before you start. Be careful will the screws and nuts, because you can't find them at a hardware store if you strip heads of threads.

One thing to check when you have it out: The printed circuit on the back of the cluster has been known to fold over itself in the upper left corner. Unfold it, and check for breaks.