Need '87 up 318/325i/s instrument cluster?

#1

Hi All,

I’m close to getting the car done and getting it fired up. It’s an '86 325e that I have swapped an '87 325i engine into. I knew all along I’d need a 7k tach from a later model car.

Here’s a link to an e30tech thread I am using for reference.
http://www.e30tech.com/forum/showthread.php?t=78726&highlight=325e+to+325i+swap

Rob Keehner and I went through a couple of clusters he has plus looked at realoem. After close review we don’t think I can get a later model tach to work with my '86 e instrument cluster. I have a 5k tach with a coding plug in the back of it. I don’t think later year 318/325i/s (same Tach P/N) were made with that kind of plug. I think they came with a coding dongle that plugs into the cluster circuit board. So I think my only course of action is to get a whole replacement instrument cluster from an '87 up 318/325i/s.

A) Can I get confirmation of what my requirements are for a properly functioning tach? If I’m understanding incorrectly, what do I need?
B ) If I am correct with the above assessment, would anybody have one for sale? (Rev Al?)

Thanks,

KB

#2

I think I may still have an 87 325is cluster that has a working tach that uses the coding plug into the rear of the tach.

#3

Hi Jim,

Sent you a PM.

Thanks for replying.

KB

#4

Hi All,

Mother Nature had me down for a while, but I’m starting to come back around.

Still looking for Tach or Instrument Cluster as originally described.

Anybody got a spare for sale?

As an alternative, can an aftermarket tach be purchased and installed? Let me add also that I want to install a shifter light, so solutions including that kind of application will be welcome as well.

The 2010 rules have opened up instrumentation options.

Thanks,

KB

#5

Send me a PM with your address. I have a tach and probably have the coding plug for it.

#6

PM sent.

#7

Ok,I did a little more research on the tach swap process.

I think all I need is a 7k tach from an 84-85 318i. Here’s my reference.

http://www.strictlyeta.net/technical/tachometer.html

Sound familiar to anyone knowledgeable on e/i engine swaps?

Thanks,

KB