Ok, so like many out there with the early S197's I got a 6 gauge cluster that is dropping gauges. I lost voltage and temperature already, now gas is going as well.

I had to take the car in for inspection today and it passed after putting some new wiper blades on. It wouldn't pass without them changed so what the heck. 104 bucks out the door, not too bad.

I asked them for a quote on a cluster replacement just to know, and it came in at $831.25. The guy got defensive after seeing the way my face turned, and I pretty much said that it isn't his fault parts are so expensive, but it was clear I am not going to get this done until I loose the rpm or speedo.

I have seen gauges for sale for far less than the 615.48 the dealer is charging. Even a bullitt cluster, which I think looks awesome. Especially since it doesn't have the word bullitt plastered on it. I wonder if it would fit my GT.

I undoubtedly have to take the cluster to the dealer and get it programmed with the right mileage and installed. It does mean I pay less, and get a more awesome cluster out of it. And those bullitt clusters are mycolor, just like I have on mine, so I won't loose anything either.

So, what do you guys think I should do? Pay the dealer for the original part, or will a bullitt cluster work and just have the dealer put it in for me with the correct mileage?

 

You also have the option of keeping your original cluster and swapping out the servos that have failed. A write up about repairing the cluster is here somewhere

 

I have read about that, but there are some blemishes on the original cluster anyway. I am so surprised no one has done this swap. I've seen the GT500 cluster swap more than once on here, but those folks have to live with the boost gauge not working. And that would drive me nuts. Just like this cluster I have currently. It just doesn't drive me 831.25 nuts.

I figure the only problem I'll have is the TPMS light coming on every time because my 05 doesn't have that. Perhaps if I get some TPMS sensors in my tires it would work? If the GT500 cluster plugs in, than surely this one will?

Does anyone know anyone on the board that did this swap? That bullitt cluster looks awesome!

 

I like to fix stuff so I'd do the servo replacement and replace the gauge face with something custom. Just sayin'

 

One could do that, I am not that one though. I want to make that swap somewhat cheaper than doing everything at the dealership with the very apparent mark-ups.

I want to change it up and get a bullitt dash. But it seems no one has done that swap, and no one knows if it can be done. But if the 07-09 GT500 dash goes into a 05 than the 08-09 bullitt dash should work as-well. I'd just like to know if there is anything that would prevent such a swap.

 

I'm certain the Bullitt cluster is identical to the standard GT. The only difference is the graphic face plate. Should be a direct swap and of course needs to be programmed by a dealer with the build data from your original. That will prevent the TMPS light from coming on, fix the mileage, etc.

 

Is it possible to get a dealer to swap out from the 4gauge to the 6 gauge clusters? I can't seem to find where to buy the 6 gauge clusters anywhere either.. I have an 08 GT

 

I figured as much, thanks for easing my doubt.

Bullitt cluster part number for reference: 8R3Z-10849-J

 

I have a Foose GT cluster, MyColor 6 gauge with 7114 miles out of an 08 Mustang with info switch available. PM if you would like info on it. It is a 10 minute swap out.

As far as the OP's TMPS light, no you can't add the wheel sensors and make them work on your car. It is a supposed odd option in some 06's, but it's std on all 07's and up. You'd be better off just putting a piece of tape under the faceplate to block out the led for the TMPS. Works real well and is easy to do. You have TCS so the light won't be a problem like it is with the v6'rs who don't have ABS who will see both lights.

 

I'll need a new cluster, they will load the data from the old onto the new disabling the stuff I don't have, like the TMPS sensors. I don't think they can wipe an existing cluster.