Hi Jackvo,

The usual problem with the clock is solved by replacing two small electrolytic capacitors on its circuit board. They dry out with time, so the junkyard clock is likely to have the same defect. You, or your friend the electrical tinkerer, can replace these with Radio Shack parts (100uF @ 25V) for next to nothing in cost.

Now, getting at it: The headlamp and dimmer knobs pull straight off. Careful if you feel you have to pry; the plastic cover can be brittle. The cover is levered off. Under that, a steel bracket is held by two screws also holding the left side of the cluster. The right side of the cluster is held by similar screws under the square panels.

Some advise pulling the plastic that surrounds the steering column, though I have no trouble yanking the cluster when the steering wheel is at 12:00 rest. Before you do, reach up from the bottom (after pulling the felt knee cover) to disconnect the speedometer cable. If the locknut is still intact, it will be the first I've heard of. Feel for a second, smaller cable. If someone has not disconnected it already, there is a mileage counter for the emissions service light cabled to the speedo.

The cluster pulls straight out. Be prudent and label or make notes about the wires you disconnect from the rear of the cluster. After the cluster is out, you'll see the screws you need to remove to pull the clock out, then the circuit board on the clock has, if not already replaced, two gold colored electrolytic capacitors. Un-solder and replace these two parts and the clock will live another 18 years. Edit: "if not already replaced" -- this was dumb- if they had already been replace you would not be doing this. If you do visit a junkyard, you can practice the removal and refurbish the spare clock at your leisure.

Go ahead-- good first project. Non volvo owners will be amazed at a working analog clock!
--
Art Benstein near Baltimore