How do you bench test a cluster?

[2Big4a3Series]

I have a couple of MotoMeter instrument clusters from my parts cars that I repaired but I have not had the opportunity to use or test. My original plan was to test them in my DD car before it was totalled. Short of borrowing another E30, does anyone know how I can bench test my clusters?

[James Crivellone]

Build a testing jig. You can test all the gauges and functions with pretty basic electrical knowledge.

[jlevie]

You could build a test rig, but I suspect that the cost of doing so would be greater than the cost of an E30. Probably best to try to find someone nearby that would be willing to exercise the clusters.

[2Big4a3Series]

I am pretty sure I can figure out how to build a test rig through I was hoping that someone else had a some experience to share. I pulled the speed sensor and few other major components that drive the cluster. I have not figured out how I am going to simulate the ignition coil for the tach as of yet but I think I can run most of the other functions.

[devonjordan]

Bump, I need some help...

[devonjordan]

Bump

[abepark]

first get a wiring diagram and then think really hard

[SpecM]

first get a wiring diagram and then think really hard

+1

I say, if you have to ask, its probably beyond your scope

no offence

[devonjordan]

+1

I say, if you have to ask, its probably beyond your scope

no offence

Yeah, thats usually what I go by too... we will see.

[andyman2487]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you'll need a waveform generator, oscilloscope, DC power supply, and a good multimeter. Do you know how to operate said equipment?

[devonjordan]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you'll need a waveform generator, oscilloscope, DC power supply, and a good multimeter. Do you know how to operate said equipment?

LOL, I dont have said equipment, I was just going to take it to the electronics lab on campus, and go through it with my professor...

[Aptyp]

plugging cluster into e30 is the 30 minute project. Test it that way.

[george graves]

^word. Find someone that will let you swap clusters - please don't use your college professor as your personal mechanic LOL.

[devonjordan]

^word. Find someone that will let you swap clusters - please don't use your college professor as your personal mechanic LOL.

LOL, he would totally enjoy it.

But yeah, I just got to get to a freind with an e30...

Maybe @ the meet on thursday...

[abepark]

if you have all the said equipment just gotta induce voltages with the right amperage and ground it properly. (probally a little more complicated) I think the easiest way is to just drop it into some e30's and see what works and what doesn't work and vise versa with a fully working cluster into your car. My speedo doesn't work so I didn't know if it was my cluster or my car so I just swapped a known working cluster and found it to be the car.