Volt gauge problems
 

Not sure if everyone is aware of this issue or if it is a problem with other models but I just found this issue while refurbishing my gauge cluster. I noticed a while ago that the volt gauge was tipped back and getting progressively worse but I just assumed it was loose and that I would get to it when I have time but I was told by an old school mopar guy that this is an issue with a lot of the 70’s trucks. Where the gauge mounts gets melted and can start on fire if not taken care of. Mine wasn’t quite blazing yet but I’m glad I took it apart and checked it out.
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/moparfo...623439edf.jpeg
The gauge tipping from a melted mount.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/moparfo...f5851be80.jpeg
You can kind of see the posts all melted here.

Yup common problem. I had the same damage on one of my trucks. Bypassing the AMP gauge is the common fix. I eventually found an undamaged cluster but, I left the AMP gauge bypassed and installed a voltage gauge.
The problem is that all the power for truck including the charging system (minus the starter) goes thru that AMP gauge, As the vehicle ages it gets to the point where it can't handle the load anymore, especially if additional circuits have been added over the years.

Here is a link with more details:
http://www.madelectrical.com/electri...p-gauges.shtml

Short of finding a replacement cluster, I suppose you could try to cut those old melted post off with a dermel and make new ones out of wood or nylon.. (stack of washers??) to try and correct the external cosmetics. :think:

I got tired of fixing mine.... I still have all the old parts.... But the plastic has given up the ghost !!!! Soooooo, I made a change over.... Here is somewhat of a photo of what it looks like.... :)
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/moparfo...78f74dc5c6.jpg

Looks good! Guess I better get started collecting gauges and get them all swapped out.

:thumbsup:

Brent Ball - https://mrheaterbox.com/ - I believe repairs the plastic housings and does an upgrade/rebuild of the original AMP Gauge if you want to keep it.
OR you can as posted above do the MAD by pass