Ok so everyone knows about the 98 and up dash problems.. they just fall apart. Well I have a 97 dash and am trying to put my 99 wires instruments into it. Does anyone know if has been done.

Will anything go wrong if there is no passenger air bag plugged in? The 97 trucks did not have them therefor the dash will not hold one.

 

Everyone also knows the aftermarket produces a replacement dash that won't fall apart. Cheaper and easier (not to mention the 1997 dashes will crack and shatter too).

 

how about a link mr know it all

 

LMC truck makes 'em, along with a host of other places. Do a search for 'dash' here, you will find a boatload of threads on the topic, most with links to various places.

I think the 98 and later instrument clusters are shaped differently from the earlier versions. Not to mention the wiring differences.

 

Also the 97 dash hold up Much better than 98+. And you didn't answer my question anyways.. I don't care if they make another dash, Or if its cheaper or easier.. I have an idea to use the one I have and make a custom dash so if you have input that might help id appreciate it. If you want to just be a jerk take hike..

 

Did you miss this part? A 'jerk'? I highly recommend that you adjust your attitude a bit. Insulting STAFF here isn't a good plan. (insulting anyone here really isn't a good plan, not if you actually want to get some help.)

 

Ok thanks..

They are all shaped different and some have different wiring but I have a complete 1999 harness I can swap into the 97 dash. I would have to make brackets and what not. Just thought it might be a cool custom dash idea. Its sounding like its not worth it though

 

Apparently, the dash of my 1997 didn't get the memo

 

If this is how all staff approach new members ill gladly go somewhere else for help.. he was completely rude for no reason what so ever..

 

I think the replacement dash's run around 200-250, or in that neighborhood somewhere...... I am also not sure just how 'different' the shape of the cluster is..... I think the big problem might be: I think the 98 and up guys, use the CTM to communicate with the cluster, where the earlier ones are either directly wired to the sensor they are reporting, or directly from the pcm. Odometer is gonna be an issue too.... Mechanical on the earlier guys.... electronic on the later.....

I suspect that just changing the dash cap is going to end up being easier. Maybe cheaper too, depending on what all parts you already have... While you have it apart though, might consider also doing heater core, and evap core. (if you have a/c) They are know to be somewhat problematic as well.