Driving without gauges

[JHZR2]

Hello,

Car is 1991 BMW 318i. I removed the cluster because of a jumpy temperature needle and need to service the service indicator board (common thing to go bad, as there are batteries on it).

Question is, can I drive my car without the instrument cluster? I have not tried to start it, but I assume it will start fine. The cluster is connected via three ~24-pin harnesses. Everything is electro-mechanical, there isnt a direct-piped oil pressure gauge or similar (like there is on my MB's).

The way I see it, so long as I drive slow, the only issue is the mileage I racked up without the odometer in there. I've filled up on gas very recently, and will only drive 20-40 miles in this configuration at most.

Any thoughts or issues?

Thanks!

 

[Quattro Pete]

It's illegal, but other than that I see no issues.

 

[tomcat27]

not sure on a BMW, but on many (newer) merc's the odometer is actually part of a body computer and will still accumulate miles without the cluster in place. altho way back in 91 I could be way off.... I cant imagine you would have any probs

 

[mrkdk]

Not sure with the BMW. On some GM car part of cluster is tied in with changing system like bulb is used for a resistance.

 

[Jonny Z]

Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete
It's illegal, but other than that I see no issues.



Cut a piece of cardboard to shape, get a Sharpie, draw some gauges on it, tape it to the cluster. You will be golden when you get pulled over.

 

[Shannow]

I'd be concerned about no speedo, as that's what would attract the coppers down here.

I wouldn't worry about the odo, it will start going wrong and seize one day.

 

[JHZR2]

i wasnt worried about no speedometer... but charging was indeed an issue. Started the car and noticed a lightbulb staying on. It is the ABS light. Took a cigarette lighter voltmeter and stuck it in, 12.05V or so.

So it looks like since the battery/alternator bulb was not connected, it did not excite, and thus nothing. I drive around the block to confirm this. Nothing.

So driving without gauges would cause a flat battery - no good. Changed cars and off I went.