Expert: Skip Bollinger - 1/13/2009

Question
can i swap out my 99 escort gauge cluster which does not
have a tachometer, with the cluster from a 97 escort with a
tachometer and have the tachometer function work?

Answer
Jon,
  I'm not sure but I would doubt it. You need to call Ford to see if the wiring harness between the two years, 1999 and 1997 are the same. THEN you need to ask if they are the same with and without the Tachometer. Some manufacturers will add the tach wires to the wiring harness, whether the car has a tach or not. If it doesn't, the assembly line just doesn't plug in the wire since there is no place to plug it.
  Your question will have to be answered by Ford. There is NO PARTS STORE that can answer it. You may be able to call a GOOD salvage yard that has a Hollander Manual. This book tells the salvage yard what parts will interchange between cars. They may be able to help but I'd call Ford first.
  I know I didn't answer your question but I hope my suggestions give you some direction. Good luck, brother..
Skip