[Heelsparky0501]

Hello everyone,

i own a 2000 Malibu LS and was considering installing some aftermarket glow gauges such as these...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Reve...r_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item3a58746aff

I installed some blue cold cathodes under the dash so i think that these would go nicely with them at nighttime.

My question is....How exactly do you go about swapping them? Do i need to remove the needles? how would i go about doing that and removing the cluster itself...?

-Travis

 

[festo702]

I have installed gauges like that in the past on different cars (not on a malibu) and it really is quite easy, you don't have to remove the needles (nor do I think that is possible). They are meant to slip under and around the needles, but you have to be very careful not to break the needle, they break easily. It might actually help to have someone else helping you so they can turn the needles while you try to slip them around. I actually broke one of mine, but luckily it was an oil pressure gauge that I really didn't care about so I just super glued it back on. Well worth it when its done, but just take your time and be very cautious.

 

[DrivenDaily]

I you need to remove the needles to install your kit use the trick I saw on Speed TV's Powerblock: put 2 spoons under the needle across from each other and then gently pry it upward. Pops off quite nicely. If you're concerned about getting them back on so they indicate properly, then before you remove them gently turn them from max to min display. You'll may feel a little stop at the bottom of the min setting as is the case on the '08 and up. If you try turning it further you may end up adjusting the needle's accuracy. When I did a mod on the trim around the gauges I took mine off just to peek inside the device. They use SMT (surface mount technology) LEDs to illuminate them in ours. Yours may have removeable bulbs or LEDs.

Either way, like festo702 suggests, be very careful and take your time. It pays dividends in having a clean install and no regrets for breaking delicate stuff. Once you get it done post up some pics so we can congratulate you. Oh, and so we have something to look at besides words.

 

[Silver LTZ]

There are different kits. I have used both on other cars I have owned. Some have to have the needles removed and they should supply a tool. Be CAREFUL and make sure you put the needled back EXACTLY the way the came off. They also do make ones that slide on under the needles that are easier and really can't be screwed up.

 

[Heelsparky0501]

Thanks for all of the helpfull info everyone,
im probably going to order that cluster face that i linked sometime this week.

I'll report back with pics of everything once its finished

 

[Heelsparky0501]

Im back again. the gauges just came in today, i tested them on a 12v power supply and they look great!

Im a little confused on how to start removing the cluster. Where do i start exactly.......

And do you guys think that i can jump the power for the gauges from the fog light switch, or is there anywhere else?

Thanks

 

[Silver LTZ]

Im back again. the gauges just came in today, i tested them on a 12v power supply and they look great!

Im a little confused on how to start removing the cluster. Where do i start exactly.......

And do you guys think that i can jump the power for the gauges from the fog light switch, or is there anywhere else?

Thanks

There are a few screws under the cluster. Start there....it won't take you too long.