odometer is busted.. replace instrument cluster?

[Guest]

when i bought the car it didnt work but its kinda getting annoying as i dont know when i should change my oil and stuff... should i just buy a new cluster and replace the whole thing or is there a possible easier fix. I know i have sooo many questions but i'm really trying to get my car back up to snuff lately

[Lee in LA]

[QUOTE="88 535is south florida"]should i just buy a new cluster and replace the whole thing or is there a possible easier fix. I know i have sooo many questions but i'm really trying to get my car back up to snuff lately [/QUOTE]

It's likely a broken gear in the odometer. Just open up the cluster and look at it to see whether this is your problem or not. The gears get very soft over time and break very easily. You can order a replacement set or just the broken one if you like from the website below. That was the only place I was able to find them. I'd recommend just replacing the whole set, otherwise the others will inevitably break down the road.

http://www.odometergears.com/

HTH

[Guest]

thanks for the link i will check it out, whats the easiest way to get the cluster out without damage

[RetiredDoc]

Here's a place to start.

http://www.bmwe34.net/E28/Repairs/Dashboard.htm

[Bob in San Jose]

The cluster comes out very easily. Extend the steering wheel as far out as it will go. Remove the kick panel from under the dash/steering wheel to allow better access.
Remove the two screws at the top of the cluster and push the cluster out from the back.
Remove all connectors noting where they go.
Then slide the cluster out toward the drivers door.

Get the gears from Jeff at the above site and you should be good for another 10 years.
Jeff was a sponsor at 5er Fest 2004. I even won a set of his gears at the banquet.

Bob