The Cluster Thread

[dsobering47]

Where are you finding used E46 M3 clusters and DMEs for under $300 for both?

[nando]

ebay

$119 shipped for the cluster
you can get a DME without an EWS module for $150-200. you don't need the EWS module for the cluster to work, if that's all you wanted to use it for. MSS54 without a matched EWS module is basically useless without a $1200 re-flash, so they go cheap.

the only other snag is you likely need the E46 LCM to run the cluster indicators, or modify it to run the LED's manually (turn signals, etc). I haven't decided which way to do that yet.

keep in mind an E30 M3 cluster is at *least* $300.. and it may need SI board repairs, a new coding plug, odo gears, etc.

[nando]

now with an ECU connected (but not the oil temp sensor yet).. :)

[dsobering47]

That is badass.

Now I'm second-guessing my search for an E30 M3 cluster...

[MaxBell]

Question: I have a 325e and I've swap in an M50B25TU.

I have a 325i 7k cluster that I plugged in.

It all plugs in fine, but the 325i cluster has an extra big plug on the back. I think it's green?

Will this work fine?

[alexw]

Nando

Are you saying it would be possible to use the e46 cluster for a regular M50 or S50-S52 swap?

Or just on a S54?

Sorry for the swap-noob question.

[nando]

Yes, but indirectly. You need an e46 ecu to drive the tach, coolant and oil temp gauges. Or build a CAN controller and figure out bmw's CAN messages... They give you the hardware adresses, and it adheres to the SAE standard, but the rest is unknown.