360 instrument cluster backlights out

The backlights in my 2001 360 instrument cluster are out. The needles light up, but the numbers and backlights do not. Any way to fix this, or do i need a new cluster? Thanks!

 

Are you sure theyve gone out, not just been dimmed? Try increasing the brightness using the two buttons on the dash by the steering.

 

The Dealer told me to replace the cluster, but I can't beleive that is the only way.

 

Is there any chance that a fuse is out that controls the back lights?

 

I checked the fuses.....But thanks anyway..

 

if your a techie or knows someone who "corrects mileage" they'll be used to opening up the cluster and should be able to diagnose if its just the LEDS or something more complicated thats gone, and should be able to fix it if its something easy.

 

The insides of the 360 cluster are quite complex with regards to how it illuminates the dash. I have one apart now, and will have a solution in the coming weeks.

(EDIT: ok, I don't personally have it apart -- but my good friend who lives/breaths microelectronics has the thing in his billion dollar lab, and is working on it)

A new cluster is about $4000 -- and takes weeks to get from Ferrari + tons of paperwork for mileage and VIN stuff. Save your money -- we'll have a solution considerably less expensive.

 

same problem on my 99 in last 6 months. it seems to be a common problem, and it is not a fuse or lighting level.

does anyone know if the original part been improved or redesigned, or will a factory replacement cluster "burn out" just like the original? this could mean $4k every 1-5 years for the life of the car? what's the point. i think i'll just insert some glow sticks in there for now.

 

Shhhh......... don't give away Daniels solution...

 

Here's a little thought for you guys.

The "backlight" of a 360 is an EL panel custom made for Ferrari.

If you have the cluster out you will see a printed ribbon around the perimeter.. As the actual panel hardly EVER fails it is probably the exciter circuit also know as the power supply to the EL panel.

This panel plugs into the cluster like a ribbon on a computer. There are two contacts on the actual EL panel. As they all work the same way you could concievably remove the ribbon from the cluster and seperately power the EL panel by itself with a key or lights on switch.

It is AC voltage and uses a transformer much like a neon tube does. You also should be able to put a multimeter across the terminals and check for voltage

Here's a link to an EL site that might be helpful.

http://www.electrolamp.com/elpanel.html
http://www.electrolamp.com/elinverter.html

There are other sites as well.

This is something for the "tech" guys to get into and a future profit item for someone as I would think spending 4K for a new cluster is crazy. Can't hurt the EL panel at this point if it's out.

As I am doing the 360 tach faces etc I was researching this to see if I could change the color from factory.

I know if mine goes out this is the route I am taking.

 

D you are killing me !!!
I spoke to Dave a couple of weeks ago about a cluster and he didn't give me this good news.
I found a used cluster, changing the mileage to match the old is no problem, but the one I got came out of a car with F1 and i need to put into a stick car. Hence I have to little warning lights on. I stripped out the clusters to see if I could just exchange the the ribbon, but the back section of the printed circuit board is "sealed" and i did not feel like owning 2 clusters !!
On the fuse front, the cluster illumination fuse is a 5 amp behind the drivers seat, I cannot remember the number, sorry, just check 'em all.
Let me know if your "billion dollar lab" guy comes up with a fix, I have enough cluster to keep him busy all year.
See ya Friday!!
D

 

My whole cluster is not out, just the numbers. The needles still light up. Any thoughts?

 

1) Check fuse behind the driver's seat.
2) Pay $4000 for new cluster.
3) Wait for Daniel to have exchange units available at a lower cost.
4) Disassemble cluster, attempt own fix by studying up on EL panels and transformers.

I think that about sums up the thread thus far.

 

Same fault, i just gave Dan another Cluster to "play" with, lets see how this works out.
We know there is a fix possible, because they do it in the UK, we just have to get there and make it cost effective.
Good luck getting it from a Dealer with out shelling out north of $5K

 

You guys seen the "light" yet?

 

I have manufactured and installed a new EL light panel in my 360 dash, and it works! Here are some pics. The panel looks pink but it lights white.
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Too cool.
Damian/Daniel how's yours coming along?
I want to drive

 

So was the initial problem with the OEM light panel/film or with the OEM ballast/power supply?

 

The OEM light panel failed. The power supply was ok.

 

Thanks! Nice fix, by the way.

 

That is great! How can I do mine. Do you have directions. I would be glad to pay you for your time.

 

Can a panel be made that has more light coverage?

 

My lights just went out. Is this something you can sell? If not is there more information on where to get the EL light panel?

Thanks, Dan

 

I've just finished replacing the backlight flat panel on my 360 1999, I've previously checked fuses etc but it still does not work :cry:, does any one have another ideas for diagnosis.

cheers
Pete

 

Nick- These guys can fix your digital instrument panel, regardless of the problem. They rebuilt my 575SA cluster, which had a fire due to a factory assembly error.

Franchorchamps of America, Inc.
935 Sunset Dr Suite A
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(949) 631-6373

Rod Drew
[email protected]

Will White
http://www.ferrarioc.com/


Taz
Terry Phillips