I am having intermittent trouble with the instrument panel, on my 1997 300TDi.

It only started a couple of weeks ago, first the Tacho stopped working for a few days, but then it would come on sometimes. Next it was the turn of the speedo, doing the same as the tacho. Then my fuel gauge went, and sometimes comes back on. Now the 'idiot' lights are gone, with the exception of the temperature gauge light, and the indicator signal light has also gone.

I have had the panel out, checking for a loose connection, but saw nothing obvious. Does anyone know where there may be another connection for this that may be a problem?

What about the earthing wires, though probably not in this instance, as some of the panel is working. Maybe the circuit board, or something else in the panel, is there a connection near the handbrake that controls the speedo & tacho sensors? Any help appreciated.

Tacho is run off the alternator, I have a similar problem with mine, it sort of jumps up and down, this is because the heatsheild at the back of the alternator fell off and the wee wire got a toasting, could also be a bad conenction, and an indication that your belt is slipping although I doubt that.

No idea about the speedo.

Did you check the bulbs? Half my dash is out due to blown bulbs.

Maybe there is a mouse chewing wires.

could be the printed circuit on he back of the clocks

Thank you Discomania & Yella Disco,

all comments gratefully appreciated, one way or another I will sort this out.
Just keep the suggestions rolling in!

I have the pleasure of taking the instrument panel apart as the bulbs have gone on the rev gauge and the on/off switches round the edge of the display, ideal job to do when it is peeing with rain, will also check the fuses first as they will be quick and easy to sort out rather then ripping the dash apart to find it was a fuse!