Big Reade

I know this has been touched on in older posts, but I need some clarification on a few things.

I have a 2006 GMC Sierra ccsb, and I don't currently have a trans temp gauge, so, like everyone else, I'm looking to swap in an instrument cluster from an Escalade. My question is, are they a direct swap? Do I need any sort of harness adapter since my truck doesn't have the trans temp? This swap will be taking place after I do the 4l80 swap, so knowing all of this, does anyone have any experience or knowledge they can share here and point me in the right direction? Is there a particular year(s) of Escalade cluster I need? Do you think I would be okay buying one of the remanned clusters from eBay? Any help will be appreciated!

Slammed96

iTrader: (5)

Direct swap, its plug and play. The trans temp gauge will work as soon as you install the cluster. Pretty sure any 03-06 cluster will work fine.

Suburbazine

No, that's only true of the 99-02 clusters. 03-06 clusters MUST be programmed by VIN; otherwise you have a good chance of pretty sparkly warning lights turning on and off at random. The VIN determines the BCM's address package for sending signals to the cluster, without it, what should be speed signal turns into RPM, turn signal into ABS light, etc.

Other than that the cluster is a straight swap. I recommend the eBay reman clusters, they usually offer programming service and a good warranty. If they DON'T ask for a VIN, or offer a warranty, RUN AWAY.

Big Reade

Okay, I appreciate that, because i sure as hell would've just tried to "plug and play", lol

Slammed96

iTrader: (5)

I never had my SS cluster programed and it works just fine. Just did plug and play, been in there over a year with 0 issues.

Big Reade

I was just looking at eBay, and found the cluster I needed, and they did say it needs to be programmed. They didn't say why, but said I would have to give them my vin and some other stuff.

Slammed96

iTrader: (5)

I would say it couldnt hurt anything, but if you pick one up off of someone locally, you'll probably be safe just popping it in.

Slammed96

iTrader: (5)

They would definitely have to program it for the correct mileage though.

Big Reade

That's my guess, what its all about, so you don't try to sell it down the road with WAY less mileage

fastjweb

iTrader: (2)

My escalade cluster I bought off ebay for my 05 crew cab, no programming , had it in there 6 years, no problems.