Golf 3 TDI Instrument Cluster 1Z '96

Hi!

Is it possible to replace the original speedometer face on my Golf with colored ones without any further difficulties? Is the speedometer needle secured by a dovetail joint? How about the other indicators in the instrument cluster (rev counter, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, etc.)?
I only have concerns if I remove the tachometer needle and then see a blank wave underneath. If necessary, I could recalibrate it using the navigation system. That's quite a job.
P.S.: The speedometer does not have a zeroing function!

Best regards,
Andi

While I'm not entirely sure, I've heard something about automatic adjustment before.

I seem to recall someone mentioning that stepper motors are used in there. When you turn on the ignition, an automatic zero-point calibration is performed. Therefore, you should be able to position the needles however you want.

Perhaps someone else should confirm this, but I believe that's how it was...

Okay, I once disassembled a speedometer from a 1996 Golf 3 (to modify it with blue LEDs).

It also didn't have a zero-setting mechanism on the hands. You have to carefully remove the hands using two flat screwdrivers and a shim, as it can be a bit difficult, but the hands are supposed to be securely attached.
During assembly, you attach the hands so that they can still rotate. Then, you turn the hand slightly counterclockwise while pressing it firmly.

The wave has a stop, so you've fixed the pointer right against the stop.

It has been working perfectly in the Golf ever since.