Removing Early 944 Gauges – 2.5L NA

Overview

This procedure outlines how to remove the gauge cluster from all Porsche 944 variants with an 8-valve engine configuration, covering both pre-1985.5 (1983–1985.5) and 1985.5 onwards (1986–1988) models. The process is necessary for replacing or repairing gauges, such as the speedometer, tachometer, or fuel gauge. The main challenge is disconnecting the speedometer cable, which may require removing the turn signal switch assembly for better access.

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Tools Required

• Phillips head screwdriver
• 24mm (15/16 inch) socket and ratchet
• Scribe, paint pen, or brightly colored nail polish

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Remove the Horn Button

1. Gently pry off the horn button from the steering wheel.
2. Disconnect the electrical spade connector on the back of the horn button.

Step 2: Remove the Steering Wheel

3. Use a 24mm (15/16 inch) socket and ratchet to remove the steering wheel retaining nut and washer.
4. Mark the orientation of the steering wheel to the steering shaft using a scribe, paint pen, or brightly colored nail polish to ensure proper alignment during reassembly.
5. Pull the steering wheel off the steering shaft.

Step 3: Remove Gauge Pod Screws

6. Locate and remove the two Phillips head screws in the outer gauge pods (one in each pod).

Step 4: Push Speedometer Cable Slack

7. In the engine compartment, locate the speedometer cable where it passes through the firewall.
8. Push as much slack as possible through the firewall into the passenger compartment to allow the gauge cluster to move forward.

Step 5: Disconnect the Speedometer Cable

9. Slide the gauge assembly out as far as possible.
10. Reach behind the assembly and unscrew the speedometer cable from the back of the speedometer.

If the gauge assembly does not slide out far enough: Proceed to Step 6 to remove the turn signal switch assembly for additional access.

Step 6: Remove the Turn Signal Switch Assembly (If Needed)

11. Remove the two Phillips head screws holding the upper and lower steering column covers.
12. Remove the lower steering column cover.
13. Wiggle the upper steering column cover to remove it, taking care not to break it.
14. Disconnect the electrical connectors for the turn signal switch assembly.
15. Remove the three Phillips head screws from the face of the turn signal switch assembly.
16. Remove the turn signal switch assembly from the steering shaft.
17. Slide one side of the gauge cluster out far enough to reach behind and unscrew the speedometer cable.

Step 7: Remove the Gauge Cluster

18. With the speedometer cable disconnected, slide the gauge cluster out further.
19. Disconnect all electrical wires attached to the back of the gauges.
20. Remove the gauge cluster from the dashboard.

Step 8: Remove Individual Gauges (If Needed)

21. Push the individual gauges from the back of the cluster to remove them through the front.

Step 9: Reinstall the Gauge Cluster

22. Reinstallation is the reverse of removal. Ensure the steering wheel is aligned using the mark made in Step 2.
23. Tighten the steering wheel retaining nut to 50 Nm (37 ft-lbs).

Post Procedure Checklist

• Verify all gauges function correctly (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, etc.).
• Check that the steering wheel is properly aligned and secure.
• Ensure the horn button works and is properly connected.
• Confirm the turn signal switch (if removed) operates correctly.
• Inspect for any loose screws or broken steering column covers.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals
• YouTube