There are various cluster part numbers that were put into C2 Carreras which does nothing but create confusion. There is a link in the early part of this thread for the cluster swap write up on Rennlist.org. Bill Hall did a great job on the write up and he continues to update it in order to address all of the items/issues that have arose as a part of this swap. Bill lists the part number of the cluster he used, which is a great place to start if you are looking for a cluster for a manual transmission application. The Rennlist thread also has some cluster numbers for some tiptronic clusters. The main thing is to find a cluster that you can verify is good.
There are always clusters listed on eBay, but read the listing closely to see if they will guarantee that it worked. There are a couple of salvage yards that sell clusters that are guaranteed to work, but they tend to be pricey. I have a white faced cluster for a manual transmission in my garage, but it is for a C4/TT so it's not what you would want. I have not seen any part number designation that differentiates a specific cluster for a coupe or cab. That needs to be programmed into the cluster with a PST2 or a PIWIS. Several shops other than the dealer have one. I am having RUF program mine. The other issue is mileage. I have not had the mileage reprogrammed in my cluster yet, but will need to get this done soon. I just don't see an immediate need to spend that money at this time.
Very few have taken the plunge and done this swap, so the process is still evolving, but 95% of the process has been worked out. Check with Wayne or Hans at RUF or check with the PCA Maverick folks for people that are turning their Carreras into full time track cars and have removed the stock cluster. That may be the best source of a cluster that can be verified as working. Or do what I did and take a chance on an eBay cluster.
