ok guys, i just got back from the salvage yard and i picked up a 98 gauge cluster with tach and installed it in my truck the same way the old one came out...i did notice while i had the wires unhooked on the stock cluster the truck started making a beeping sound i've never heard before and it kind of worried me, i got the new cluster all hooked up and tried to start the truck and all it would do is turn over....i'm so scared right now i don't know what to do....so i need some help fast, i figured this is the best place! i though this was supposed to be a direct swap? please help..Thanks so much in advance,
Colbie
oh the stock cluster didnt have a tach:( :confused: :confused:

Did you make sure that the new cluster came out of a ranger w/ the same engine as yours? I know that can cause some probs, but as to whether it will keep from cranking, I dont know.

Put the old one back in and it will start. Suspect you have a PATS anti-theft system on your truck, which includes a chip key.
You didn't say this, but almost sure that is what your problem is.
Ford stores the memory codes for encoded keys in the instrument cluster module on some vehicles; if the proper code is not there, and then not sent to the engine computer, it absolutely will not start.
The cluster you have got may not have had the option of PATS. Regardless, even if it is equipped, without programming at your Ford dealership, it won't start until at least two keys are programmed correctly.