To help others fix the same problems I've encountered.


Welcome to my website

I recently purchased a 1999 Chevrolet Silverado 4x4 Ext Cab, I really like the truck but it had a few little issues I wanted to fix. The first issue was the stereo backlighting, just about all of the lights were burned out, so after removing that and resoldering all new bulbs (all ten) onto the circuit board, it now works perfect.

The next issue to tackle was the problem of the odometer/gear selector panel not lighting up, actually it lighted up intermittently but was very annoying. Now the avid interneter I am I figured that other people had the same problem and a resolve to the problem would be easy to find on the net. Well was I right, many people had the same issue however I was wrong about finding a fix for it, I've looked everywhere on the net to find out how to fix it, the only solution I found was to have the instrument cluster replaced, anywhere from 180 to 500 dollars. The way I looked at it was chances are it's a problem thats fixable, so I ripped mine apart and found the issue. I created this space on here for other people to see the step by step instructions so you can fix yours for the low cost of FREE, no parts required, just solder. I'm assuming that its the same issue with most since the symptoms are basically the same. I would say that the manufacturer of the circuit board didn't put enough solder on the joint and from movement the little bit of solder that was there easily breaks. I will say that I'm your average joe will some experience soldering but not much, even if you can't solder, you could still break it down and bring it to an electronics shop to solder it, it takes less than 1 minute to solder once you take it apart. I hope that this helps at least one person out there save money, all that I ask in return is you tell me that it helped you out and if you have questions let me know. Have a good day and good luck, Chris.


Topic: Questions, Comments, General

Date: 08/04/2010

By: John

Subject: You saved me big bucks

Thanks for posting this, I just put mine back together after following your directions and it works like new.

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Date: 10/02/2010

By: Bill

Subject: Radio Backlighting

Hello Mr. Fixit.I have a 1999 silverado myself. First I want to thank you for posting this information. I will be fixing the odometer light in the instrument cluster in s few days. While I have access to the radio, I want to replace the backlighting too. I have 3 questions for you. One, how do you remove the radio from its pocket?. Two, how do you remove the radio face to get to the lighting (bulbs)?. Finally, where can I purchase the bulbs that I need. Thank You for taking the time to help me out. I will certainly let you know how it goes as well as any observations that I see that would help someone else....Bill

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Date: 17/03/2010

By: Chris

Subject: Re: Radio Backlighting

Hi Bill, sorry haven't been on my site for awhile, busy with other things, do you still need that information, It's not very difficult to do. Take off the bezel, remove the bolts or screws. I haven't looked at it for awhile actually but it's not hard to dissassemble, the bulbs aren't easy to find, I had to go to an electronics shop to find something that would work, you can also buy them online www.corvetteradios.com

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Date: 01/11/2009

By: Steve

Subject: THANKS

Works Great!! Thanks again for the information.

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Date: 01/11/2009

By: Steve

Subject: Solderer

Thanks for the info. Works great. You saved from buying a new one. Great pictures!

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Date: 01/11/2009

By: Steve

Subject: solder

Thanks for the information. Step by step the pictures helped out alot. Did'nt have one problem. Everything works like new again.You saved me $100 dollars for a used inst. cluster at the salvage yard that would'nt even have the correct odometer. Thanks again

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Date: 19/10/2009

By: Doug

Subject: Radio cover

How do you take apart the radio to replace the lights? Also before you fixed the instrment cluster, did you have the 4wd, cruise, and high beams constantly on?

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Date: 12/10/2009

By: Dave Roy

Subject: Great 20 minute fix!!!

I just did your step by step process on soldering the bad connection on the PRND21 Selector on my 99 GMC truck. Worked like a champ.

I have been searching for days for this answer on forums and no luck, I had a similar problem on a honda part *Master Relay* they are 150 bux...fixed mine for free due someone like you helping others out on the net. Now I dont need a new cluster!! Thanks man!

I am going to post a link to your site that will be a sticky note on www.fullsizechevy.com. No one there really knew how to fix it! :) Took me all of 20 mins total to complete.

Again thank you very much!!

Do you have a fix for the intermittent Tow/Haul button problem? It works intermittently as well.
Take Care!

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Date: 12/10/2009

By: Chris

Subject: Re: Great 20 minute fix!!!

I've rec'd so many emails saying basically the same thing, glad it's working now. I haven't had a problem with the tow/haul, would have to see it.

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Date: 22/09/2009

By: Mike

Subject: thanks for the info

I have had the intermittent problem with the gear selector/ odometer for years. I have had it apart before but I was afraid to pull the circuit board off & breaking it. I knew there was a short & I had made plans to take it out & take it into work & have our electrician help me but could not find the right time to do without the truck. With your help I had it fixed within an hour. working great so far.
PS
I have also replaced many light bulbs in the radio in my truck & also in my wifes GM vehicle
Thanks again for your help

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