CLUSTER CHIME MALFUNCTION (DIAGNOSIS/REPLACE CLUSTER)

SUBJECT: CLUSTER CHIME MALFUNCTION (DIAGNOSE/REPLACE CLUSTER)

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1992 "H" MODEL

CONDITION:

---------- Some 1992 Pontiac "H" models may exhibit an inoperative chime condition when the "CHECK GAUGES" telltale is illuminated. In addition, after the seat belt chime has sounded followed by a 2 second delay, some of these vehicles may rapidly sound a second chime for 10 seconds. Under normal conditions, this chime will sound four (4) quick pulses when the "CHECK GAUGES" telltale comes on to indicate low fuel, low oil pressure, hot engine coolant or low battery voltage.

CAUSE:

------ This condition may be caused by a damaged transistor in the cluster. The transistor activates the auxiliary line of the chime module and can be damaged anytime the park brake is applied, the ignition is on and ground Ct. 803 is disconnected from the battery.

SERVICE PROCEDURE:

Refer to Section 8A of the service manual for circuit details.

1. Verify that the auxiliary input of the chime is working by depressing the park brake with the ignition on. A rapid chime should be heard for 10 seconds after the eight (8) second seat belt chime. If not, refer to the park brake chime diagnostic/ repair procedure in the service manual.

2. Release the park brake.

Note: If the park brake is applied, the chime will not sound when requested by the cluster. Start the engine. Wait more than 60 seconds.

3. If the "CHECK GAUGES" telltale comes on during the wait period, identify the cause, and correct it following published service procedures. Keep in mind that low fuel can cause the telltale to come on. Note that the "CHECK GAUGES" telltale will be on anytime the ignition is on and engine not running.

4. Using Tech 1 or CAMS, cycle the Hot Light output through the PCM.

5. The "CHECK GAUGES" telltale should come on and the chime sound four times. If the chime is not heard when the "CHECK GAUGES" telltale comes on, the cluster must be replaced.

6. Call the AC Delco repair centre to obtain a replacement unit. Follow section 8C of the Service Manual to removal procedures.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.