overhead console transplant?

[LaGrasta]

I have a '98 Astro. It has the overhead console with compass and temp only, but not the mpg computer the following year had. I purchased a later model console but have yet to install it. The cable harness is troubling me as the dealer had no information (microfish) on it, so they say. I have read about making your own but am reluctant. Can anyone shed some light on the swap or what may be involved?

[sfeaver]

I did that in my van. All that is required is to run a wire from the data line on your ALDL connector up to the overhead console.

I did find that the gallons used can be out by half a gallon or so when filling up. Not that its a big deal, it still gives you a good idea how much your using. This might be because the 97 van (in my case anyhow) is only 25 gallons, i think somewhere between 99 and 2000 it went back to 27 gallons.

If you need some more detail on the wiring let me know.

Scott

[LaGrasta]

You make it sound easy. I'll give it a shot if you're willing to share the details of the swap. Where do I start?

[sfeaver]

The data line you need to run goes from terminal H at the overhead console. It is the yellow wire if you have "the other side of the connector" from the old van. If not, you'll see one wire that is on the new console but not on your van wiring harness. You want to connect this to the purple wire at the ALDL connector. It is pin #2.

The easiest way up is underneath the trim along the side of the windsheild. The factory wiring runs up by where the seatbelt is at the driver door, you need to pull the driver seat if you want to run it this way.

Thats about it.. Best way to make connection is by soldering, those three way scotchlock connectors are shit. I have used them before but they always seem to open up after a while.

With the newer console if the data line isnt connected right you will get --*F for the temperature.

All in all its a very easy upgrade. Hardest part is fishing the wire through the side of the dash. I wouldnt think it would take more than an hour.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

Scott

[LaGrasta]

thanks scott, I'll give it a shot.

[sfeaver]

How did the install go?

Scott