Noob question, can't seem to find the exact info I am looking for from searching, but what do I need to do to upgrade my base model wagon to the GLT wagon trip computer? There are a few in the local boneyard, and I'd like to do this so I can keep track of my mpg (or rather be able to see it on the fly). My gauge cluster currently is the one that has the digi clock and temp readout (looks the same as the GLT cluster). Can I just get the INFO switch and wiring and plug it in, or is there more to it?

Thanks!

-Z-

 

You just need the trip comp out of the donor cluster and the wire harness that goes from the comp to the switch and the switch . it is a easy mod I did it in about 40min

 

Is there a write up with photos anywhere? I'd like to see what I need to pull before I go hacking into things at the scrapyard. I may even just pull the entire cluster and replace it since my odometer gears are busted (however it'd be a good time to fix them when I install the trip computer lol)

 

If you replace the entire cluster take care as there are 2 different models which look identical.
All cars from 92 to 95 are compatible and 96 and 97 are compatible. There are wiring and signal differences making the models incompatible. So if you mount a 96 cluster in an 95 car all works except the speedometer and the ABS light stays lit. BC also does not work as the speed signal is wrong.

My advice is for you to buy the small gear and repair the odometer. An used cluster will also abide to Murphy's law and break one week after you fitted it

Also take care as there are 2 different BC units they differ in the connector on the back.

If you have the Yazaki cluster (RPM gauge goes up to 8000rpm) you will need to replace the cluster completelly as this one cannot be retroffited with the BC unit.

Happy hunting
Cristian

 

Its for my 97 US wagon, and both donor cars are 96 US GLT wagons with the trip computer stock...so from what I can tell, they should work. If I buy the entire cluster, I figure on replacing the gears anyhow, its less work imho to do it that way (makes reassembly faster, and if I screw up I can always do it properly on the one in the car now )

I do not believe my tach goes to 8000, but I will have to double check.

 

Remove the entire dash pad. Trying to slide it out of a half removed pad will only cause you to break plastic, etc.

Click here: Dash Cluster Removal for the Volvo 850

 

Thanks Rspi Looks like I already have the VDO cluster...Does anyone have a photo of the trip computer removed?

 

 

Thanks again dude Much appreciated! Thought that was what you guys were referring to, but wasn't sure. Was expecting more of a piggyback/standalone module that plugged into my current display but this works too

Last question I have, the car has winter mode and there is a warning light next to my display. Is changing this out going to affect that functionality in any way? It looks like the one in your photo has the same light on the right of the display, is this what it is?

 

Yep the frost warner is the same, you need for it the temperature sensor behind the front bumper. If your car already has it then you are good to go retroffiting one of these.

It is pretty easy to do it, the BC is hold by 2 torx screws on the back of the cluster. Cluster obviously needs to be taken out.
It's a good idea to replace the 4 big bulbs which illuminate the cluster (3w) and the 2 for the BC as these lights are more prone to burn out.

If the odometer gear has not been changed I'd do it also ...