right side of guage cluster lights are out- how to fix? Temp guage broke also

[clydesdale]

On my 87 325is, the water temp guage stopped working a few months ago. I can reach up and touch the back of the guage and then it appears to work, but then goes back to pegged at hot. I think it is just a bad wire or connection. But now the right side light does not work. So at night the tach is dark or close to it. Can someone tell me what it is like to fix this. What needs to be done? Can I get a new temp guage if necessary?Do I have to remove the guage cluster? Any hints or tips would be great. Thanks

[Jean]

1) check the nut at the back of the temp gauge
2) replace the bulb on the right side

if above doesn't work, then check for bad/cold solder joints on the main cluster board.

Yes, you can order a new temp gauge if needed.

[clydesdale]

Is this a reach up into the cluster thing, or do I remove the cluster? Thanks

[Jean]

Would be much easier if you remove it, otherwise if you have really small hands and good with the touch then maybe you can do it but doubt it...

[JustAdam]

I seriously doubt you can get your hands up there, I dont think my 5 year old could even do that - anyway, much easier to take out the cluster anyway, check all the bulbs and fix the temp gauge at the same time IMO :)

[clydesdale]

I have a bently repair manual, but any idea how long this will take to get out or what it entails?

[onaquest]

Check out this link. It has pictures and step by step instructions for removing the cluster.

http://e30m3performance.com/maintenance/SI_Board/SI_Board.htm

[Jean]

Takes 15 minutes tops on non air bag car w/o removing steering wheel.

[clydesdale]

You guys have been very helpful. Should I replace the SI batteries while in there? THe car is an 87 with 236k that I bought 4 years ago. All the SI lights currently work. Is it something where at this time I could just put new batteries in or is there more to it? Do they really need to be soldiered in place? Are they rechargeables? Where do I get these? Also can the dash bulbs be bought at an autopart store or do I need to assemble parts before I go after this?