Nissan Repair: Instrument Problem 84 300ZX, 84 300zx, instrument repair shop

Question
QUESTION: I just got an '84 300ZX and I am trying to fix some of the problems. One of them is the instrument cluster for the G-force/MPG and Compass. They light up but the arrows nor the MPG gauge comes on. I was wondering what needs to be replaced, the units themselves or something else? All the other instrument gauges work.
Thanks

ANSWER: Brian,

I would start with the cluster since several items are acting up.  The car has a G-meter under the center console and that should work and that is what feeds data to the cluster.  The compass should work so I would be checking fuses and wiring.  But, first just remove and clean the cluster and the harness connector to start with.  If that fails email me back and we'll discuss the removal of the console to get at the g-meter.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I removed the cluster and opened it up and one of the larger capacitors has swollen enough to split the plastic coating around it and bulge the top. I would guess it is blown and I need to replace the cluster. Nothing changed after reconnecting it and all the fuses under the dash look fine. I am having some other problems as well, but I am not sure I can fix them.
-Radio doesn't work (underdash fuse and fuse on the back of radio are fine)
-Windshield Wipers don't stop where they should. (Intermittent stops mid window, turning wiper off sometimes does same thing)
-Factory alarm does not shut off when unlocking the car from the drivers side, passenger works fine, trunk connector is gone so it just needs a new connector.

Thanks again for your help,
Brian

Answer
Brian,

A instrument repair shop could repair your cluster or you could do some searching on-line to find a used one.  The wiper motor is probably defective where it comes to parking.  If you turn the wipers off at the bottom they should stop and then start looking for a motor.  The driver's side door is probably in need of getting the electrical connector on the back of the lock replaced.  This should take care of the factory alarm.
The internal fuse in the radio is probably blown or the internal power supply has gone bad.  A radio repair shop could check it out and let you know.