(Before I ask this I would like to state that I am not attempting to perform any fraudulent actions)
So I was wondering if the cluster itself in my 2008 Ranger holds the mileage or if it is stored in some type of computer. My cluster stopped working and i'd like to replace it with the FX4 cluster with black faces and silver bezels and I was wondering if once I install the new cluster will my existing mileage re-appear on the cluster or if it is stored in the defective cluster. I am aware that you can have the odometer adjusted and set to your desired mileage.
Thanks!

 

That's the least of your problems by switching clusters,

Your PATS (passive anti theft system) is going to be the major problem, Your ignition key, instrument cluster, and engine computer all have to matching numbers.

The only way I know to change the cluster, is to have your local Ford dealer order a brand new one from the factory, the factory will then program the brand new cluster to your VIN, PATS, and mileage, they will send it to the dealer who has to install it.

 

Welcome to the forum

+1 ^^^^

2004-2011 Rangers have digital cluster(google: Ford HEC), so mini computer inside, it tests the transponder key when you try to start engine, so first problem i swapping clusters
With key on the Cluster needs to "handshake" with the engine computer, second problem, these both use RSA encryption so each has a "private key" that must be programmed in and then they are "married" so they can only 'talk' with each other, so you can't swap cluster or computer without "remarrying", and only a Ford Dealer can do that

3rd problem is the Odometer, yes the cluster AND engine computer both have the mileage, the computer calculates speed signal from OSS sensor on transmission then sends out that signal to the speedometer and odometer, so BOTH calculate miles traveled separately
If a cluster fails a Ford dealer needs to read the miles on the engine computers odometer, they then send that to Ford tech support, there is just one location, they program a new cluster with that mileage and send to to dealer
Dealer installs it and the "remarries" the new cluster and engine computer, then reprograms available keys into the new cluster

If you pull the cluster out engine will not start, or if you put another cluster in engine will not start
Now I never tried it but...................you may be able to swap cluster AND engine computer with another cluster and ITS engine computer, I think that would work, but it would have to be same year and same engine transmission setup

NOT even a Ford Dealer can adjust the odometer on a 2004-2011 Ranger, or most Ford vehicles after 2005
Ford vehicles had a bad rep for odometer rollbacks for many many years, so they FIXED the problem, lol

 

You mentioned the output shaft speed sensor, could that be my problem? What sensor(s) measures speed and mileage, would I notice anything else like the transmission shifting weird?

 

You'd probably want the ignition key and tumbler from that same vehicle.

My other concern would be in states that have pollution testing, the VIN might be in engine computer and/or instrument cluster and wouldn't match the ones on the truck.