[Codger77]

Hi all, I have been enjoying a 2002 Boxter S 6-speed for several thousand miles since purchasing in mid 2021 but recently experienced an electrical short in the instrument cluster (I believe) causing a melt-down at the green electrical connectors, male & female, and evidence of heat on the male blue connector which was crumbling apart (aging?). I had garaged it after a normal drive and a few days later I was beginning another trip but in second gear while pulling away I noticed the tach & speedo including digital were indicating zero when I smelled smoke. After returning to my driveway and turning off the ignition ASAP everything cooled down allowing me to quickly drive it into the garage and disconnect the battery where it sits now. The whole ordeal from garage and back to driveway lasted about 15 minutes and I am very concerned that no fuse was blown since they are all intact with correct amperage according to the chart. Previously all the gauges worked well except the oil level gauge indicated full constantly and I have assumed that was a sender problem. Naturally, I am looking for a compatible replacement cluster and male connectors, blue and green. I am finding several 2001 clusters and wonder how to tell if they are compatible and what is involved in reprograming the cluster? Also, with the cluster disconnected, removed and ignition on I have put up the top successfully and wonder if harm will come by cranking to remove and return it to the garage to access the attic for Christmas decorations and stay out of the doghouse? I will greatly appreciate any advice from the Forum since I am way over my head with this.......Jim W.
PS: I would also like to avoid burning my Boxter and house down.......