Aftermarket Speedo/Tach Solutions for Maxim XJ550j

My instrument cluster has been destroying itself very slowly, so I think it is time for an aftermarket solution. The two common suggestions are the Acewell digi-speedos/tachs and the stuff from Mikesxs.

For a mechanical/electrical newb, which would be easier to swap? It seems like Mikesxs's stuff is easier to deal with.

 

I looked at doing an aftermarket solution, and decided to stay with stock to keep from having to rework all of the wires going into the cluster.

Fitz found a great deal on a 550 cluster on ebay sometime back, so they do come along. You may want to give it some more time looking for a replacement before going the aftermarket route. It may offer less of a hassle in the end.

 

Truth be told, I've bought 3 or 4 clusters on eBay and never paid more than $25. Using parts from all of them plus some NOS stuff I was able to rebuild two very nice units (for both my Secas.)

The cluster comes apart nicely as long as you're careful; and with some "raw material" to work with you can get a good one put together.

(tip: the lettering can be repainted by "pad printing" it: use a non-abrasive white rubber eraser sliced cleanly or a hunk of a craft stamp and Dupli-Color gloss white touch-up paint.)