Instrument Cluster Circuit Board Fix

I broke all of the pins off on the drivers side circuit board while pulling my instrument cluster on my 1970 Dart Swinger. This seems like a common problem as this is a poor design at best. Fourtunately you can get aftermarket boards (at about $100 each), or used somewhat cheaper. I opted to fix mine with a little solder.

My solder skills are avarage at best, however if you use good solder, flux, and a steady couple of hands you can save some $$$.



Here is my fix.

First I added a dab of flux to the board and then the broken end of the pin.

Then I tinned the tip of the soldering iron and transfered the solder to the board, and then the broken pin while holding the pin with tweasers.

Then I reheated the solder on the board and quickly placed the pin with the tweasers, and then placed the tip of the iron where the pin met the board, straightening it up with the tweasers. (Takes a little paitence and practice).

Repeat for each pin.

Then I flipped the board and added solder from the back for added strength. A wet paper towel as a heat sink helps to hold the pins in place from the front while you solder the back of the board. I also added a strip of electrical tape to the back of the board for added insulation just in case.

Here is the end result.