164 LCD Problems

[gatorgirl@domain.elided]

I do not own a 164, but my experience in radio electronics suggests a
possible fix.  Depending on the type of circuit boards used in the mass
production of electronic devices, certain components can be subject to
intermittent connections if the solder separates from the component lead.
The amount of this separation needed to cause the device to work improperly
can very small indeed, and may not even be detectable by looking at the
solder joint.  Further, the condition can be brought about or (more likely)
exacerbated by temperature changes which cause the solder and the component
leads to expand/contract at different rates.  The cure for this to (very,
very carefully) rework every solder joint on the circuit board.  There is no
sense in trying to guess what joint may be the problem.  This is done using
a light-duty soldering pencil and heating the join just enough to completely
melt the solder.  Be careful not to create any solder bridges between the
adjacent solder joints or circuit traces.  If you have never soldered on
electronic equipment before, you should ask yourself if you should really
try this before diving in.  Also, I don't  know if any of the devices on the
board are of the CMOS type, so a grounding strap is probably a good idea.

Another possibility is a crack in one of the circuit traces.  Expansion of
the circuit board could cause an open circuit at the crack when the board
expands (or circuit trace contracts).  In this case, you have to locate the
crack and fix by soldering or using a conductive pen.

Again, I make these suggestions on the basis of my knowledge in electronics
and not cars.  Proceed at own risk!!!

Richard Stiles
Dunedin, FL

'74 Spider

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