There are people that have been doing this longer than me and have more experience and better tools. I want them to make videos so I can watch and learn. Thanks for the compliment!
You asked 2+ years ago why I was watching, was searching for a solution for my battery issue in my 03 Avalanche, since the DIC displayed garbage char I had already pulled the fuse for it which got rid of the battery drain and the garbage char, however now it is just dead, no display at all. Which led me to searching cluster repairs and of course your YT channel. Now I am watching all your videos trying to decide if I will send it to you or tackle it myself. I am an IT guy now but started out 45 years ago as an electronics tech. Love your clear and concise way of working through the issues you find.
I'm guessing because I watch a lot of repair video channels the algorithm suggested your channel, which I subscribed to many videos ago. South Main Auto, Electronics Repair School, ETCG1, Louis Rossman, David Tipton to name a few. Eric at SMA did a few vids with cluster and radio repair, I think that's when I was directed to you. I have to say you're the Bob Ross of electronics, the skill and technique of the repairs are mesmerizing, plus your ability to share knowledge is also refreshing. Excellent Channel!!!
I have had two Dorman rebuilt clusters with lackluster results. So now i have to deal with some of the speedometer backlighting not working. I enjoy watching someone with exceptional professionalism . Thank you.
Thanks for sending me the link for the 09/2002 clusters! I must say that it is very generous of you lead me in a direction that may result in a successful repair .Your videos are very concise and I'm sure you have been told many times how much you have helped others ! Very kind of you to do so! Thanks again, m.k.
I'm here because I'm an Electronics hobbyist, enjoy watching people repair stuff that actually know what there doing. Oh and because knowledge is power!!! Lol
I started replacing stepper motors and lights on my own vehicles after watching your videos. I truly appreciate not only your knowledge but your willingness to help others learn! Keep up the good work and thank you!
Intricate, detailed and specific. I was told once “set it to spec and it will run.” Basically what I’m saying is to be successful in this work one needs to know the spec of the build and components thereof. You have the necessary patience and skill to do this so it’s easy to watch plus the clear videography and speech is a big plus. The microscope view you use is amazing. There was no internet or utube when I was coming up and I had to figure things out on my own because of either the lack of resources or others didn’t know or just didn’t want to give it up. To answer your question, as a retired tech, it’s quite interesting to me and a pleasure to see an honest highly qualified tech at work. Nice work and thank you for sharing. May God Bless.
Hey mr, I came because I own a car audio shop and simply enjoy watching this type of work being performed. I like the quality of work you’re doing so keep it up!
First I like to watch a lot of different types of board repairs, helps make a person a little more well rounded. Second, it's just always nice to watch someone who does quality work, doesn't do shortcuts, and is honest
I am a CET with several years of experience in soldering and printed circuit repairs. This type of work can be quite tedious for even a seasoned tech, especially double-sided boards. After reviewing several of your videos, I successfully repaired (without damaging) my 2007 Silverado HD instrument cluster four years ago. Many back lights were OTS, so I replaced them all with blue LED's from Mouser Electronics (no Chinese junk parts). I used white LED's for the turn signals, high-beam indicator, and cruise control indicator. My trip odometer reset tactile switch was also broken, but I found a replacement and made the repair (I don't remember seeing that in your videos). I especially admired the additional LED's to the speedometer and tachometer to eliminate the dark spots and I copied your method. My instrument cluster still looks better than OEM to this day! Thank you providing several technical tips when I had zero experience with GM instrument clusters.
Stumbled over the channelin my youtube suggestions. I'm a newly graduated mechanic so that probably why. I watch alot of auto diagnosis and general electronics videos. You make very good videos.
I have an issue with my daughters cluster and found your channel. You work is top-notch and you know your stuff. Sort of like kids watching heavy equipment dig.
I'm here for 2 reasons: 1) I need the display on my 2005 Chevy pick-up repaired (it's in slow motion failure - every several months another function fails); 2) I enjoy watching a job done very well by someone that knows what they're doing
Watching someone who is skilled in their craft is interesting and enjoyable. Don't know much about electronics but love watching electronic repair videos. Managed to fix a few things by replacing obviously bad capacitors.
You fixing that TV brought me to this video. Your style and smarts are quite appealing. Not the least bit annoying either like some other tubers. New subscriber as a result.... thanks for your videos.
I like to watch a pro fix things, they make it look easy. I worked in the auto repair field for more than 30 years. My dad was a Radio and TV technician so I learned some fundimantals but I have not fixed many clusters. Not since the old milar film circirts what a job.
Interesting trade you have. I have diy'd a couple repairs on sequence control boards for clients in hvac/r field. I frequented a store that sold stuff for doing this but wife said, "You're already tooled up"!
I'm an industrial electrician by trade, somehow one of your videos ended up in my feed. It only took one video to see (and I've said this before) it is enjoyable to watch and learn from someone that really knows what they are doing.
I came because my instruments are half not working. I was trying to learn if this is something i can do, or hire out to a professional. After watching you i really admire your skill. I have never soldered anything before. Nor do i have any tools for it. Thanks for making these videos.
I watch because I have a mechanical mind to start with , got to know how almost everything works ! Also could use some work on my 05 GMC truck cluster . But I really enjoy watching someone who knows what they are doing and more importantly has a lot of pride in their work !!! :-)
I love watching a craftsman at work. I like the way you describe the process. YT recommended you and I am glad. I build custom panels for flight sims and love to see how these automotive panels are made.
Hey jeff. Im a newly licensed tech in the field daily but Ive been playing with these clusters for over 4 years as a hobby. Just recently started advertising locally for these rebuilds and repairs. I found your channel while in search for info on these clusters. I Find your videos and work by far THE BEST. Very professional and clean. Great video quality and micro shots. Sound is good to minus you talking over the sucker on this one :p Your one of the only youtubers i can find that knows anything about the workings of these boards and wishes to share it with us all, so thank you! Keep up the great videos
When I started making these, the more experienced cluster repair techs were not interested in sharing detailed information. I'm assuming it's because they wouldn't want to share secret information to the people they could potentially be competing against. But, sharing info worked for Louis so I went for it.
I know this video is 2 years old but I still wanted to drop a comment about why I am here and why I like the channel I found the channel because I was hoping to learn how to change the LED's on my cluster to a different color. It ain't plug and play. LOL I have watched several of the videos because it is a pleasure watching a professional work and your presentation of the work you are performing and why is excellent.
I have a basic electronics knowledge and have a liking of all things electrical. I just like watching people take other peoples crappy work and make it all nice and pretty (and working ) again. Its always nice to watch someone who 'knows' what they are doing. You tube is great for learning BUT there are way to many cowboys out there - which is good for you I guess as that keeps you in business. Great vids.
You asked what brings me here. Well, my 05 Z71 cluster has a speedometer and volt gauge that occasionally weirds out on me. I’m here to watch and learn as well as see what tools you use to perform this type of work. I’m a retired journeyman medical machinist and fabricator who enjoys a good challenge! I am also watching for about how long you apply heat so as not to burn up the “trace I guess it’s called”. It appears no longer than a couple of seconds. That solder sucker seems to me to be the key to a successful repair! Heading to Amazon after a few more of your vids to find one. Yes I did subscribe, and will continue to enjoy watching a true craftsman at work.
You got it. Don't let a ton of heat soak in and be quick without excessive force. Manual solder suckers are available if you don't want to blow $300 for a possible one time use tool.
I enjoy the candid comments you make while redoing bad repairs. I can't imagine getting it fixed properly, the first time, would cost that much. The old saying still is true. When trying to save a little money, you end up having to pay more to have the poor workmanship corrected. Keep up on doing quality work.
I'm a mechanic and automotive electrician/diagnostician, not afraid of the guts and gore of electronics. I'm fairly competent in SMD rework and certain component level troubleshooting repair. I watch on a regular basis Lewis (Rossmann Repair Group), Keith (New Level Auto), Eric O (South Main Auto Repair) and Ivan (Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostics) to name a few. What brought me here was that one of your videos randomly popped up in my UA-cam feed one day. As you are starting to get a little big in the UA-cam world the haters will follow, take no notice of them, your videos are great 🙂
I have an 03 Silverado and the water temp quit. Watched a couple of your videos and was instilled with confidence. I changed the stepper motor and a couple of bad lights and it works perfect again. Thanks!
I'm here because out of Louis rossmanns UA-cam channel and I fix Odometers myself. You just came up in the suggestions when I was watching Luises channel. Greetings from Germany * Daniel
I'm here because I like to watch people who know what they're doing fix stuff. And you obviously know what you're doing.an Its nice to see a master craftsman at work.
The algorithm must have hooked you up because of the car repair/rebuilding boom all over UA-cam right now. Your video came up as a suggestion from a Samcrac video for me. IAWTP - nice work!
I didn't/don't do cluster work. I spent 10 years doing field failure quick response failure analysis for a DoD laboratory. I enjoy your approach and commentary as you proceed. I guess I can say it is reminiscent and therapeutic for me.
I'm here because I also fix stuff (mainly laptop mainboards) and i like to see someone else doing it. I learn new techniques and strangely watching this type of videos calms me. I am enjoying it like a kid enjoys a new toy.
Didn't even know about your channel until literally 15 minutes ago! Hell yes, I'll subscribe. I've been a custom car electrician on and off for the last 40+ years. Street rods, customs, restorations, limos, hearses. Now I work almost exclusively on Citroens.
RE, your question on why I came here, and why I watch: I'm a technician for a semiconductor company, I fix things all the time, and I like watching/learning new things. I've done board repair before, but on older, bigger boards, nothing like these. This showed up in my suggested, and I've been meaning to swap my lights out for green LEDs for a while in my Sierra, since half of the OEMs are out. It really WAS a perfect suggestion for me
I dabble in it. I can change the stepper motors out fairly easily. Fixed a few resistors when i could visibly see the joints were broken. I see you have a procedure of resoldering them (not all but certain ones) so youve helped me greatly.
I'm here because I have some backlights out in a 2000 Bonneville SSEi and want to do a color change. I was just doing some searching and found your channel. I used to repair / build electronics for a very large company and your videos bring me back. I miss my solder sucker. :'( :-P I'm now a Semi trailer / refrigeration / truck mechanic. I want to transition to my own business though with the goal of building and fixing cars for people, not corporations. I'm going to have a go at putting RGB throughout and incorporating the factory dimmer switch for overall brightness. Eventually I want to do an ardruino headunit to include controls for the RGB as well as use the steering wheel buttons for whatever I want.
automotive technician from Quebec here! I offer diagnosis, programming and electronic repair to the surrounding shop. so I do some board repair like cluster, ecm, bcm etc... I listen to Louis from time to time, learn a bit from him... but he do laptop repair... not cluster repair. so was happy to find your channel since your job is way more related to mine compare to Louis. all the nightmare you had to fix was a joy watching! hehe I like the way you think and you work. I learned some and enjoy to watch. so keep up the good work and long live to your channel!!
I owe Louis the credit for me pushing my channel the way I did. He proves board repair can be entertaining and people will watch. But most importantly, he made a video a few years ago something about "why would I show other people my secrets that could potentially be my competition". It worked out for him, so I decided to go that way to.
I have had a truck cluster fixed, twice and I still have a gas gauge issue. I have a degree in EET and I like seeing you fix and analyze problems. Its helping me remember things deep in my brain..lol. Thanks.
@@jeffescortlx No codes, I checked today. Its actually been fixed at least three times, twice by a guy I hired. I bought an old 2004 GMC Sierra 2500 WT with 280K KMS. The gauge is not accurate, at the bottom end of the tank, its off by about a 1/4 tank. I'm in Alberta , Canada.
@@BrianGallagherSylvanLk it's possible for the sending unit to fail but still be within range, so it won't trip a CEL. You'll want to use a scan tool that can read the sending unit, so you can compare what it's saying vs the cluster. The guy doing the cluster work should beable to bench test the cluster.
I just came across your channel just by looking for something to watch. I had no idea that ppl are repairing these and I know who I'm calling for cluster work. You do some very nice work and I hope to have you work on a cluster for me one day.
Hi Jeff, I normally work on vintage audio, as a hobby. Although as of late, it has become a bigger part of my monthly income than at anytime in the past. A good friend of my owns a auto repair business. He began asking me if I would fix gauge clusters, usually with a rather tight turnaround time. I did a couple for him, then I began researching "how to's" online, came across your channel. The rest as the say is history. Actually, I only do about 5-10 a month. And that is with one customer! So I thought I might try get a couple a week to help with my overall bottom line. So far it seems to be working, thanks in no small part to your videos, and such. As always, thank you for the great videos! And thank you for the leads on proper equipment! Finding your channel has been a boon for my business!
I work on electronics as a hobby. Sometimes I repair cell phones or trail cameras and watch videos on youtube and you happened to pop up so I decided to watch. I also just subscribed as well. If I had to guess youtube added your channel to the reccommended list for people who watch electronics repair videos.
i came here from a search about truck headlights not working the switch on my 04 3/4 ton pickup had the solder join break in it and your gm switch repair vid was dead on so i subscribed. you know your stuff good sir and its always nice to watch someone whos very skilled at there job make it look easy when you know its not.
I was researching what could be wrong with my 2003 Silverado dash display, ( pointers don't work lights gone out) and I found your channel. Still need it fixed lol. I Just enjoy the content, and the close ups of the work you do. Keep it up! Watching from Al udeid Qatar!
i'm here to watch as i am always appreciative of excellent craftsmanship and quality. plus i like to learn new things everyday. being a tech in the auto field, watching and learning from you allows me to explain things better to my customers. this is not a repair i have the skillset to perform ( hands shake a little to much) but am more than capable to recognize pride and quality in ones work
got started, by replacing stepper on my wife's 2005 pontiac. I did a good job, I thought, because I replace all 4, so she had nothin & now they work. But I have older GM car's, 95 G.P. pontiac, 88 buick elec p. avenue & 90 bonneville. I was watching your video because I can see your really good at these. You also mentioned in one of the many I watched about the different generations 1997 -02 and 2003-2007,so I learned from you the difference. AIR COIL ON 97-02 & steppers on 03-07 I don't own a car newer than that. but the the 86-91 and 92-96 hope that's close to the generations of the clusters > I take it, they still use air coil type in those generations, it's just, What? There "different looking", air coils, in each of those. I like how those from 97-02 unplug like a light bulb. I pulled, cluster out of an 86' olds delta 88 Boy the cluster's back then, long. And sometimes speedometer only goes up to 85 and no tach and no gauges but gas gauge.I would like to make a test station, as I have one for dodge radios, & GM. why not for clusters.
I'm here because I love to watch precision repair people work. I also subscribe to a couple of restoration channels for the same reason. I have no interest in cluster repair, nor in restoring hand tools or anything else, but it's soothing to watch an expert at work.
Very interesting work. I’m here because it looked intriguing and it is. Never thought how people repaired instrument clusters but now I know. Would be awesome to demonstrate how each part works or how it functions. Great job.
So I persevered. After watching a few of your video's on the chevy cluster repair. I was able to repair mine. Re-soldering the connector pins and the resistor around the connector pins. It now works. The guages might be a little off but they work. Thanks!!
Enjoy watching your soldering techniques plus some of the equipment you use. I repaired my GMC envoy Dash but have learned quite a few techniques from you will continue to watch
I enjoy watching somebody who knows what they doing work , I enjoyed tinkering with electronics but I'm not very good but I try to learn something new everyday ,
Interested because I have an issue with 2001 Silverado fuel gauge. But then..... I watched about five of your videos because I liked them. Nice work; fun to watch a pro at work. Wish I had the electrical knowledge, always wanted to but just never got to it.
I'm here because I do repairs on these, albeit not quite as in depth as you, as a side hobby. I've not seen a more professional, organized, or more knowledgeable video series from anywhere else, so I keep coming back for tips and tricks to improve my own process.
I am here because I enjoy watching. I graduated in Computer Engineering (same degree program as Electrical Engineering except for a few senior level classes) and studied circuit design/semiconductors. I have been working on electronics since a kid so this is enjoyable to watch. Great content. I am fixing an LED light bar on my car rebuild project this weekend partly because of your videos and trying to save $$ too. My video should be out on my channel early next week.
You sure do marvelous work on those clusters. I remember repairing wiper motor circuit boards in the 90’s model GM vehicles just by resoldering the bad joints.
I am IT by trade and a hobby mechanic in my free time. I enjoy soldering and learning from others, I've always wondered what made these clusters malfunction and how to repair them. I would like to repair these clusters and other automotive electronics on the side one day. I have a Lexus LS430 that has bouncing needles, they read correctly but if there is a quick needle movement they over and undershoot until they settle at the correct reading. It doesn't bother me but it would be nice to fix, I haven't found the cause of the problem yet. I got that rossman reference at the end!
Wes from Kentucky. I am starting to dabble in some home automation and circuit boards and my neighbor has a GM 2004 cluster that is not working and he asked me to see if I could try and fix it.
I install 12v electronics in cars, audio remote starts etc, and found your video in my suggested page. Watched a few videos and can tell you take pride in your work. I figure I may learn a few things along the way!
I found this channel by accident, glad I did, I am interested in this subject as an Electronics Tech since the early eighties. I watch many channels on Electronics (Dave Jones EEVBlog, Louis Rossmann and his continuing battle with Apple and their products, Shariah's Signal Path Blog) as it keeps me upto date with the industry and can be a good refresher too. I currently work in the automotive industry. I have recently designed an American car adaptor to translate the RED only tail lights to european AMBER and RED, to work these colours on a trailer attached to the car.
About a week ago youtube put one of your videos in my recommended list. After watching it, i recognized the user name. Talk about a blast from the past. I remember using your 1.9 to 2.0 SPI swap how to 15 years ago as my first ever engine swap. And these cluster repair videos are filled with great info. If the cluster in my 03 silverado ever acts up, hopefullyI will know what to look for, or at least know where to send it to.
I like your channel because I love watching people do things they are great at doing. I'm a mechanic though so might be useful to me in some capacity even though GM cars arent that common here in sweden. I do refer anyone that has questions about clusters to your channel also. They come up from time to time on other car and electronics channels. Getting mentioned in the comments on a channel like bigclivedotcom might account for some swell in the viewership, especially as people will like what they see.
Somehow I stumbled on your channel and I find it interesting to watch you work. I enjoying learning how things work and are repaired. You seem to really know how to troubleshoot and repair any cluster and it's kind of mesmerizing watching you work. You're like the Frank Abagnale Jr of the cluster world.
it’s interesting seeing board repair and troubleshooting techniques, and the tools, materials used, since a lot of the work is tedious, a time lapse or two is great.
I found your channel while troubleshooting my own S10 issue. Your skill & knowledge amaze me. Watching you brings me back to when Radio Shack was still in business & access to diodes, resistors, capacitors & the assortment of electronics available to to public. Maybe you could tell us what your source of components are. Please Keep Up the Good Work.
A couple of you videos popped up in my suggested list and I watched them. Now, strangely enough, My Tach needle has started acting up on my 2003 Chevy Trailblazer. I have been thinking about checking it out once it gets warm enough outside for me to do outdoor work again. I have had jobs in the past that involved soldering circuit boards under a microscope and I still own one. Also have the soldering equipment. I am pretty sure it is just a broken solder joint since when it goes out it will come back on if I hit a bump or when I hit on the top of the dash.
I'm here because I love to learn. I like learning new things. I also had a guy who does this work, replace my steppers and lights, but I don't think he did the LEDs right. In one of your other videos you explained why you had added the extra lights to where the speedometer sits to light the whole cluster better well as you said mine has crappy light dispersal and some areas are light and others are very dark. I was looking to see if I could add lights and fix the issue myself.
My GMC Sierra 2500 has VFD that disappears when it is visible it’s very faint.I’m also interested in learning how to do repairs correctly.thanks for asking and showing us!
For contact information follow this link:
ua-cam.com/video/T_2WnJMsZaU/v-deo.html
I'm here because I like to watch people who know what they're doing fix stuff. And you obviously know what you're doing.
There are people that have been doing this longer than me and have more experience and better tools. I want them to make videos so I can watch and learn. Thanks for the compliment!
A summit in humility 🙆♂️jeffescortlx
@@jeffescortlx what's the cost and turn around time, 2003 2500hd instrument cluster rebuild, untouched factory, speedo gone haywire.
@@MrMarklupo rebuilds are $120 plus return shipping. I'm not taking in repairs until after the holidays. Thanks.
You asked 2+ years ago why I was watching, was searching for a solution for my battery issue in my 03 Avalanche, since the DIC displayed garbage char I had already pulled the fuse for it which got rid of the battery drain and the garbage char, however now it is just dead, no display at all. Which led me to searching cluster repairs and of course your YT channel. Now I am watching all your videos trying to decide if I will send it to you or tackle it myself. I am an IT guy now but started out 45 years ago as an electronics tech. Love your clear and concise way of working through the issues you find.
I do this for a side job and like your vids because you know your stuff. No bull shit and no loud useless music.
I'm guessing because I watch a lot of repair video channels the algorithm suggested your channel, which I subscribed to many videos ago. South Main Auto, Electronics Repair School, ETCG1, Louis Rossman, David Tipton to name a few. Eric at SMA did a few vids with cluster and radio repair, I think that's when I was directed to you. I have to say you're the Bob Ross of electronics, the skill and technique of the repairs are mesmerizing, plus your ability to share knowledge is also refreshing. Excellent Channel!!!
I'm subbed to all them channels too myself!
your a no nonsense guy that knows what your doing and you dont need the annoying music with it...great vids
I have had two Dorman rebuilt clusters with lackluster results. So now i have to deal with some of the speedometer backlighting not working. I enjoy watching someone with exceptional professionalism . Thank you.
Thanks for sending me the link for the 09/2002 clusters!
I must say that it is very generous of you lead me in a direction that may result in a successful repair .Your videos are very concise and I'm sure you have been told many times how much you have helped others ! Very kind of you to do so!
Thanks again, m.k.
Just here cause it's a pleasure watching someone who is highly skilled doing their thing.
It is really easy to sit and watch someone do real good work. And show how it is done.
I'm here because I'm an Electronics hobbyist, enjoy watching people repair stuff that actually know what there doing. Oh and because knowledge is power!!! Lol
I started replacing stepper motors and lights on my own vehicles after watching your videos. I truly appreciate not only your knowledge but your willingness to help others learn! Keep up the good work and thank you!
Intricate, detailed and specific. I was told once “set it to spec and it will run.” Basically what I’m saying is to be successful in this work one needs to know the spec of the build and components thereof. You have the necessary patience and skill to do this so it’s easy to watch plus the clear videography and speech is a big plus. The microscope view you use is amazing.
There was no internet or utube when I was coming up and I had to figure things out on my own because of either the lack of resources or others didn’t know or just didn’t want to give it up.
To answer your question, as a retired tech, it’s quite interesting to me and a pleasure to see an honest highly qualified tech at work.
Nice work and thank you for sharing. May God Bless.
Thanks! I too remember the time before internet. Sure is different now.
Hey mr, I came because I own a car audio shop and simply enjoy watching this type of work being performed. I like the quality of work you’re doing so keep it up!
First I like to watch a lot of different types of board repairs, helps make a person a little more well rounded. Second, it's just always nice to watch someone who does quality work, doesn't do shortcuts, and is honest
I am a CET with several years of experience in soldering and printed circuit repairs. This type of work can be quite tedious for even a seasoned tech, especially double-sided boards. After reviewing several of your videos, I successfully repaired (without damaging) my 2007 Silverado HD instrument cluster four years ago. Many back lights were OTS, so I replaced them all with blue LED's from Mouser Electronics (no Chinese junk parts). I used white LED's for the turn signals, high-beam indicator, and cruise control indicator. My trip odometer reset tactile switch was also broken, but I found a replacement and made the repair (I don't remember seeing that in your videos). I especially admired the additional LED's to the speedometer and tachometer to eliminate the dark spots and I copied your method. My instrument cluster still looks better than OEM to this day! Thank you providing several technical tips when I had zero experience with GM instrument clusters.
I like to learn new stuff and watch people work on stuff that know what they are doing
I have a 07 Dodge Durango and my heater control light are out can you fix it and how much
Stumbled over the channelin my youtube suggestions. I'm a newly graduated mechanic so that probably why. I watch alot of auto diagnosis and general electronics videos. You make very good videos.
I have an issue with my daughters cluster and found your channel. You work is top-notch and you know your stuff. Sort of like kids watching heavy equipment dig.
I'm here for 2 reasons: 1) I need the display on my 2005 Chevy pick-up repaired (it's in slow motion failure - every several months another function fails); 2) I enjoy watching a job done very well by someone that knows what they're doing
Watching someone who is skilled in their craft is interesting and enjoyable. Don't know much about electronics but love watching electronic repair videos. Managed to fix a few things by replacing obviously bad capacitors.
You fixing that TV brought me to this video. Your style and smarts are quite appealing. Not the least bit annoying either like some other tubers. New subscriber as a result.... thanks for your videos.
I like to watch a pro fix things, they make it look easy. I worked in the auto repair field for more than 30 years. My dad was a Radio and TV technician so I learned some fundimantals but I have not fixed many clusters. Not since the old milar film circirts what a job.
Interesting trade you have. I have diy'd a couple repairs on sequence control boards for clients in hvac/r field. I frequented a store that sold stuff for doing this but wife said, "You're already tooled up"!
I'm an industrial electrician by trade, somehow one of your videos ended up in my feed. It only took one video to see (and I've said this before) it is enjoyable to watch and learn from someone that really knows what they are doing.
Good to see there are people that take some honest pride in their work. Kudos to you Jeff.
My secret past time is reading technical manuals. Also learning while I watch someone perform tasks. Love the channel, keep up the great work!
I came because my instruments are half not working. I was trying to learn if this is something i can do, or hire out to a professional. After watching you i really admire your skill. I have never soldered anything before. Nor do i have any tools for it. Thanks for making these videos.
I watch because I have a mechanical mind to start with , got to know how almost everything works ! Also could use some work on my 05 GMC truck cluster . But I really enjoy watching someone who knows what they are doing and more importantly has a lot of pride in their work !!! :-)
I love watching a craftsman at work. I like the way you describe the process. YT recommended you and I am glad. I build custom panels for flight sims and love to see how these automotive panels are made.
The reason for me to look at your video's is, it's impressive to look at professional repairmen at work.
Keep up the good work.
I like to see a workman that takes pride in his work!
Hey jeff. Im a newly licensed tech in the field daily but Ive been playing with these clusters for over 4 years as a hobby. Just recently started advertising locally for these rebuilds and repairs. I found your channel while in search for info on these clusters. I Find your videos and work by far THE BEST. Very professional and clean. Great video quality and micro shots. Sound is good to minus you talking over the sucker on this one :p Your one of the only youtubers i can find that knows anything about the workings of these boards and wishes to share it with us all, so thank you! Keep up the great videos
When I started making these, the more experienced cluster repair techs were not interested in sharing detailed information. I'm assuming it's because they wouldn't want to share secret information to the people they could potentially be competing against. But, sharing info worked for Louis so I went for it.
I have always been baffled by just looking at an electronic board and to watch you work on them is impressive and educational. Thank you for sharing.
I watch a few electronic repair channels, but repairing automotive is quite interesting, and a new dimension I enjoy. Thanks for all the great vid's.
I know this video is 2 years old but I still wanted to drop a comment about why I am here and why I like the channel
I found the channel because I was hoping to learn how to change the LED's on my cluster to a different color. It ain't plug and play. LOL I have watched several of the videos because it is a pleasure watching a professional work and your presentation of the work you are performing and why is excellent.
I have a basic electronics knowledge and have a liking of all things electrical. I just like watching people take other peoples crappy work and make it all nice and pretty (and working ) again. Its always nice to watch someone who 'knows' what they are doing. You tube is great for learning BUT there are way to many cowboys out there - which is good for you I guess as that keeps you in business. Great vids.
I like electronic repair videos and yours popped up in my feed.
Nice job fella, reworking other people's mistakes can be a pain. Especially when you get solder bridges & bits of wire everywhere.
You asked what brings me here. Well, my 05 Z71 cluster has a speedometer and volt gauge that occasionally weirds out on me. I’m here to watch and learn as well as see what tools you use to perform this type of work. I’m a retired journeyman medical machinist and fabricator who enjoys a good challenge! I am also watching for about how long you apply heat so as not to burn up the “trace I guess it’s called”. It appears no longer than a couple of seconds. That solder sucker seems to me to be the key to a successful repair! Heading to Amazon after a few more of your vids to find one. Yes I did subscribe, and will continue to enjoy watching a true craftsman at work.
You got it. Don't let a ton of heat soak in and be quick without excessive force. Manual solder suckers are available if you don't want to blow $300 for a possible one time use tool.
I enjoy the candid comments you make while redoing bad repairs. I can't imagine getting it fixed properly, the first time, would cost that much. The old saying still is true. When trying to save a little money, you end up having to pay more to have the poor workmanship corrected. Keep up on doing quality work.
I'm a mechanic and automotive electrician/diagnostician, not afraid of the guts and gore of electronics. I'm fairly competent in SMD rework and certain component level troubleshooting repair. I watch on a regular basis Lewis (Rossmann Repair Group), Keith (New Level Auto), Eric O (South Main Auto Repair) and Ivan (Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostics) to name a few. What brought me here was that one of your videos randomly popped up in my UA-cam feed one day. As you are starting to get a little big in the UA-cam world the haters will follow, take no notice of them, your videos are great 🙂
Well it looks like UA-cam is doing a good job at showing the right videos to the right people!
I have an 03 Silverado and the water temp quit. Watched a couple of your videos and was instilled with confidence. I changed the stepper motor and a couple of bad lights and it works perfect again. Thanks!
I'm here because out of Louis rossmanns UA-cam channel and I fix Odometers myself. You just came up in the suggestions when I was watching Luises channel. Greetings from Germany * Daniel
you have made me more informed, so i can give a more complete answer to what is going wrong as to tell my customers and for that i thank you
I'm here because I like to watch people who know what they're doing fix stuff. And you obviously know what you're doing.an
Its nice to see a master craftsman at work.
The algorithm must have hooked you up because of the car repair/rebuilding boom all over UA-cam right now. Your video came up as a suggestion from a Samcrac video for me. IAWTP - nice work!
I've watched some of his videos, maybe that did something.
I didn't/don't do cluster work. I spent 10 years doing field failure quick response failure analysis for a DoD laboratory. I enjoy your approach and commentary as you proceed. I guess I can say it is reminiscent and therapeutic for me.
I also enjoy watching people fix stuff.
I fix things as a hobby and needed to repair my cluster, thanks for all your work!
I'm here because I also fix stuff (mainly laptop mainboards) and i like to see someone else doing it. I learn new techniques and strangely watching this type of videos calms me. I am enjoying it like a kid enjoys a new toy.
I understand the excitement of fan spin!
I just enjoy professionalism displayed.
Didn't even know about your channel until literally 15 minutes ago! Hell yes, I'll subscribe. I've been a custom car electrician on and off for the last 40+ years. Street rods, customs, restorations, limos, hearses. Now I work almost exclusively on Citroens.
RE, your question on why I came here, and why I watch: I'm a technician for a semiconductor company, I fix things all the time, and I like watching/learning new things. I've done board repair before, but on older, bigger boards, nothing like these. This showed up in my suggested, and I've been meaning to swap my lights out for green LEDs for a while in my Sierra, since half of the OEMs are out. It really WAS a perfect suggestion for me
and I love that desoldering gun, going to have to get one, I've been using the plunger style, and they're a PITA
I dabble in it. I can change the stepper motors out fairly easily. Fixed a few resistors when i could visibly see the joints were broken. I see you have a procedure of resoldering them (not all but certain ones) so youve helped me greatly.
I'm here because I have some backlights out in a 2000 Bonneville SSEi and want to do a color change. I was just doing some searching and found your channel.
I used to repair / build electronics for a very large company and your videos bring me back. I miss my solder sucker. :'( :-P
I'm now a Semi trailer / refrigeration / truck mechanic. I want to transition to my own business though with the goal of building and fixing cars for people, not corporations.
I'm going to have a go at putting RGB throughout and incorporating the factory dimmer switch for overall brightness. Eventually I want to do an ardruino headunit to include controls for the RGB as well as use the steering wheel buttons for whatever I want.
automotive technician from Quebec here! I offer diagnosis, programming and electronic repair to the surrounding shop. so I do some board repair like cluster, ecm, bcm etc... I listen to Louis from time to time, learn a bit from him... but he do laptop repair... not cluster repair. so was happy to find your channel since your job is way more related to mine compare to Louis. all the nightmare you had to fix was a joy watching! hehe
I like the way you think and you work. I learned some and enjoy to watch. so keep up the good work and long live to your channel!!
I owe Louis the credit for me pushing my channel the way I did. He proves board repair can be entertaining and people will watch. But most importantly, he made a video a few years ago something about "why would I show other people my secrets that could potentially be my competition". It worked out for him, so I decided to go that way to.
I have had a truck cluster fixed, twice and I still have a gas gauge issue. I have a degree in EET and I like seeing you fix and analyze problems. Its helping me remember things deep in my brain..lol. Thanks.
Glad to have helped. Sounds like it's time to plug in a scan tool and read what the sending unit is saying.
@@jeffescortlx No codes, I checked today. Its actually been fixed at least three times, twice by a guy I hired. I bought an old 2004 GMC Sierra 2500 WT with 280K KMS. The gauge is not accurate, at the bottom end of the tank, its off by about a 1/4 tank. I'm in Alberta , Canada.
@@BrianGallagherSylvanLk it's possible for the sending unit to fail but still be within range, so it won't trip a CEL. You'll want to use a scan tool that can read the sending unit, so you can compare what it's saying vs the cluster. The guy doing the cluster work should beable to bench test the cluster.
I’m here because you were in my recommendations list , keep up the good work
Nice thanks!
I like watching people fixing items. I tend to learn from it.
I just came across your channel just by looking for something to watch. I had no idea that ppl are repairing these and I know who I'm calling for cluster work. You do some very nice work and I hope to have you work on a cluster for me one day.
Hi Jeff, I normally work on vintage audio, as a hobby. Although as of late, it has become a bigger part of my monthly income than at anytime in the past. A good friend of my owns a auto repair business. He began asking me if I would fix gauge clusters, usually with a rather tight turnaround time. I did a couple for him, then I began researching "how to's" online, came across your channel. The rest as the say is history. Actually, I only do about 5-10 a month. And that is with one customer! So I thought I might try get a couple a week to help with my overall bottom line. So far it seems to be working, thanks in no small part to your videos, and such. As always, thank you for the great videos! And thank you for the leads on proper equipment! Finding your channel has been a boon for my business!
Glad to be helpful! Now your only regret is that you didn't start 10 years ago!
@@jeffescortlx Indeed! :)
I work on electronics as a hobby. Sometimes I repair cell phones or trail cameras and watch videos on youtube and you happened to pop up so I decided to watch. I also just subscribed as well. If I had to guess youtube added your channel to the reccommended list for people who watch electronics repair videos.
Was watching Louis Rossmann and you were a recommended video. Addicted to repair videos and learning new skills. Keep up the good work.
i came here from a search about truck headlights not working the switch on my 04 3/4 ton pickup had the solder join break in it and your gm switch repair vid was dead on so i subscribed. you know your stuff good sir and its always nice to watch someone whos very skilled at there job make it look easy when you know its not.
Glad that video was helpful!
I was researching what could be wrong with my 2003 Silverado dash display, ( pointers don't work lights gone out) and I found your channel. Still need it fixed lol.
I Just enjoy the content, and the close ups of the work you do. Keep it up!
Watching from Al udeid Qatar!
i'm here to watch as i am always appreciative of excellent craftsmanship and quality. plus i like to learn new things everyday. being a tech in the auto field, watching and learning from you allows me to explain things better to my customers. this is not a repair i have the skillset to perform ( hands shake a little to much) but am more than capable to recognize pride and quality in ones work
It's great watching someone do something they are really good at.
got started, by replacing stepper on my wife's 2005 pontiac. I did a good job,
I thought, because I replace all 4, so she had nothin & now they work. But I have
older GM car's, 95 G.P. pontiac, 88 buick elec p. avenue & 90 bonneville. I was
watching your video because I can see your really good at these. You also mentioned in one
of the many I watched about the different generations 1997 -02 and 2003-2007,so I learned from
you the difference. AIR COIL ON 97-02 & steppers on 03-07 I don't own a car newer than that.
but the the 86-91 and 92-96 hope that's close to the generations of the clusters > I take it, they still use air coil type in those generations, it's just, What? There "different looking", air coils, in each of those. I like how those from 97-02 unplug like a light bulb. I pulled, cluster out of an 86' olds delta 88
Boy the cluster's back then, long. And sometimes speedometer only goes up to 85 and no tach and
no gauges but gas gauge.I would like to make a test station, as I have one for dodge radios, & GM. why not for clusters.
I'm here because I love to watch precision repair people work. I also subscribe to a couple of restoration channels for the same reason. I have no interest in cluster repair, nor in
restoring hand tools or anything else, but it's soothing to watch an expert at work.
Thanks! I like to think what I do is circuit board resteration.
Very interesting work. I’m here because it looked intriguing and it is. Never thought how people repaired instrument clusters but now I know. Would be awesome to demonstrate how each part works or how it functions. Great job.
I used to work on my own electronic equipment and watching you reminds me of it, plus I'm learning alot from you.
Ha... Fan spin... Someone watches Rossman also..
Ha ha ha!
So I persevered. After watching a few of your video's on the chevy cluster repair. I was able to repair
mine. Re-soldering the connector pins and the resistor around the connector pins. It now works. The guages might be a little off but they work. Thanks!!
Enjoy watching your soldering techniques plus some of the equipment you use. I repaired my GMC envoy Dash but have learned quite a few techniques from you will continue to watch
I enjoy watching somebody who knows what they doing work
, I enjoyed tinkering with electronics but I'm not very good
but I try to learn something new everyday
,
Interested because I have an issue with 2001 Silverado fuel gauge. But then..... I watched about five of your videos because I liked them. Nice work; fun to watch a pro at work. Wish I had the electrical knowledge, always wanted to but just never got to it.
I'm here because I do repairs on these, albeit not quite as in depth as you, as a side hobby. I've not seen a more professional, organized, or more knowledgeable video series from anywhere else, so I keep coming back for tips and tricks to improve my own process.
I am here because I enjoy watching. I graduated in Computer Engineering (same degree program as Electrical Engineering except for a few senior level classes) and studied circuit design/semiconductors. I have been working on electronics since a kid so this is enjoyable to watch. Great content. I am fixing an LED light bar on my car rebuild project this weekend partly because of your videos and trying to save $$ too. My video should be out on my channel early next week.
I've also had a interest in understanding electronics as a kid. Always was fascinating.
I'm subscribed to Rossman as well. I love watching any experts at their craft :)
You sure do marvelous work on those clusters. I remember repairing wiper motor circuit boards in the 90’s model GM vehicles just by resoldering the bad joints.
Nice job. You did your best considering the condition.
I’m a ham radio operator so this sort of thing / problem solving really interests me and the methods of course
I am IT by trade and a hobby mechanic in my free time. I enjoy soldering and learning from others, I've always wondered what made these clusters malfunction and how to repair them. I would like to repair these clusters and other automotive electronics on the side one day. I have a Lexus LS430 that has bouncing needles, they read correctly but if there is a quick needle movement they over and undershoot until they settle at the correct reading. It doesn't bother me but it would be nice to fix, I haven't found the cause of the problem yet. I got that rossman reference at the end!
Alright a Rossman fan! Sounds like if your cluster uses air-core style motors, it could have dried up oil causing the loose needle movement.
@@jeffescortlx Thank you for the tip!
@@jacoblharris you bet! Sometimes oil can be injected with a syringe.
Wes from Kentucky. I am starting to dabble in some home automation and circuit boards and my neighbor has a GM 2004 cluster that is not working and he asked me to see if I could try and fix it.
I install 12v electronics in cars, audio remote starts etc, and found your video in my suggested page. Watched a few videos and can tell you take pride in your work. I figure I may learn a few things along the way!
I found this channel by accident, glad I did, I am interested in this subject as an Electronics Tech since the early eighties.
I watch many channels on Electronics (Dave Jones EEVBlog, Louis Rossmann and his continuing battle with Apple and their products, Shariah's Signal Path Blog) as it keeps me upto date with the industry and can be a good refresher too.
I currently work in the automotive industry. I have recently designed an American car adaptor to translate the RED only tail lights to european AMBER and RED, to work these colours on a trailer attached to the car.
About a week ago youtube put one of your videos in my recommended list. After watching it, i recognized the user name. Talk about a blast from the past. I remember using your 1.9 to 2.0 SPI swap how to 15 years ago as my first ever engine swap. And these cluster repair videos are filled with great info. If the cluster in my 03 silverado ever acts up, hopefullyI will know what to look for, or at least know where to send it to.
Hey yep that's me. I still have a 1.9 turbo hybrid.
I like your channel because I love watching people do things they are great at doing. I'm a mechanic though so might be useful to me in some capacity even though GM cars arent that common here in sweden. I do refer anyone that has questions about clusters to your channel also. They come up from time to time on other car and electronics channels. Getting mentioned in the comments on a channel like bigclivedotcom might account for some swell in the viewership, especially as people will like what they see.
Showed up as recommended.....glad I stopped by.....your work is amazing!
Somehow I stumbled on your channel and I find it interesting to watch you work. I enjoying learning how things work and are repaired. You seem to really know how to troubleshoot and repair any cluster and it's kind of mesmerizing watching you work. You're like the Frank Abagnale Jr of the cluster world.
Had mine repaired by repairmyguage,in arizona,love seeing the diagnoses, and cool tools,you do a great job explaining,subscribed,merry Christmas
I loved your Rossmann Group reference!
it’s interesting seeing board repair and troubleshooting techniques, and the tools, materials used, since a lot of the work is tedious, a time lapse or two is great.
Lol at “no fan spin”! I would have liked to see Louis critique this board.
i can do that for you - way to less flux, also no schemathics, and where the hell is the advertisement!?!?!?^^
I found your channel while troubleshooting my own S10 issue. Your skill & knowledge amaze me. Watching you brings me back to when Radio Shack was still in business & access to diodes, resistors, capacitors & the assortment of electronics available to to public. Maybe you could tell us what your source of components are. Please Keep Up the Good Work.
Mouser, Newark, Digi-key, eBay, Amazon and China vendors.
A couple of you videos popped up in my suggested list and I watched them. Now, strangely enough, My Tach needle has started acting up on my 2003 Chevy Trailblazer. I have been thinking about checking it out once it gets warm enough outside for me to do outdoor work again. I have had jobs in the past that involved soldering circuit boards under a microscope and I still own one. Also have the soldering equipment. I am pretty sure it is just a broken solder joint since when it goes out it will come back on if I hit a bump or when I hit on the top of the dash.
I'm here because I love to learn. I like learning new things. I also had a guy who does this work, replace my steppers and lights, but I don't think he did the LEDs right. In one of your other videos you explained why you had added the extra lights to where the speedometer sits to light the whole cluster better well as you said mine has crappy light dispersal and some areas are light and others are very dark. I was looking to see if I could add lights and fix the issue myself.
Watching you work relaxes me.
My GMC Sierra 2500 has VFD that disappears when it is visible it’s very faint.I’m also interested in learning how to do repairs correctly.thanks for asking and showing us!
Just enjoy watching quality board repairs of many types. This was a video that played after a Rossmann video. Made sense at the end of this.