Resurrecting this ancient thread just to say I've done this----successfully at that!
My project consisted of an F250 cluster model year from '99-01 fitted into an '03 E250 5.4 gas 2WD chassis. I many respects this is not a hard swap but of course that statement is highly dependent on your own skill level and experience working with or re-configuring Ford's OEM electrical connectors.
The post by Schluchtenflitzer where he shows a before and after connector configuration is essentially what I did but being a bit anal or too prone to overthinking things I went a bit further with reviewing Ford EVTM drawings, modifying them with colored markings to better demonstrate what needs to move and to where.
Generally my "method" could apply to model years '97 thru '03 which was the last year E-Series did
not have a tach in the cluster. Those years also used the DC servo motor types of odometer and trip meter which is another feature seamlessly integrated via this swap.
I did discover when swapping clusters, at least in my case it was mostly a matter of unplugging the original and simply replacing the F-Series---every important function of drive train control and monitored engine conditions worked perfectly. This included the speedo and odo, engine temp, oil pressure, battery/alternator voltage, fuel level as well as turn signals, 4 way flashers and even the H/L on/Key In Ignition reminder buzzer too. These were my biggest concern going in so this revelation did a lot to ease anxiety for this project
With a bit of moving a few wires between the stock cluster connectors and adding two (for Tach Select 1 and its ground wire) every other important monitored condition or situation could now be seen in the cluster display. This included things like Low Battery/Low oil pressure, Engine Over Temperature, Low Fuel, MIL status. ABS Status, Parking Brake/Brake Fluid Level Warning, Fasten Seat Belts, SRS Faults, High Beam all worked without any issues. It should be noted there are a few
minor modifications to the F-Series cluster housing and the E-Series dash where the cluster sits---very minor in fact.
On a 260 mile round trip with an Actron scanner configured to show live data the tach output and speedo reports from the PCM were very accurate. While I can't be sure at this moment if the actual ground speed compares favorably with the speedo indication its still good knowing all signals were in agreement with the VSS's output.
I did gain a huge insight into how this swap could be done on other models, years, engine types etc even to the point 4WD and Hi/Lo Range could be added to the cluster IF those signals were/are present from an aftermarket upfitter. I'm assuming Quigley,
et al use or have available sensors or connections allowing that sort of interfacing.
For illustration purposes only, to demonstrate the "how to" of my process images of various stages could be posted along with notes etc for those looking to maybe dive into this sort of swap. If there's enough interest we'd create a separate thread.
So anyway The Great White Whale CAN be tamed but only by the brave and unafraid.
Linear Mode
