If I swap clusters on my 2004 Ranger, will the mileage reading be what was on the donor cluster or what was on my original cluster?

 

Odometer mileage is stored in the Cluster's microprocessor, so it will show mileage that is in the cluster being used.

Read here, post #7: 2004 White Gauge Instrument Cluster Swap / Need Info - The Ranger Station Forums

 

Thanks Ron that answers that question.
Next question is, how do I get the replacement clusters speedometer reprogrammed to my original mileage?

 

Assume you mean odometer :)

The electronic odometer can be reprogrammed to any mileage when it is out of the vehicle, but you need the software and cable to interface with the cluster's processor.

I would call local repair shops and see if any have that software, it can run $2,000-$4,000 to buy, so it would have to be a fairly busy shop to warrant that expense.
And see what they would charge you to change your new one.
I don't think Ford Dealers can do it, they order new clusters with odometer preset to the old clusters mileage, but worth a call some may have the software to save time.

Odometer is a "legal" type device and there are laws that apply to people who commit "odometer fraud" in most states.
So you may need to provide info before anyone will reprogram anything, i.e. bring your truck in with the old cluster in place, so they can see mileage on current odometer, and leave them the new cluster to reprogram it to that mileage.
May also need registration showing last "legally" recorded mileage.

I have never done this so just speculation on my part.

 

Sorry Ron for not being clear on that,yes I meant odometer.It is looking like I just might switch the face from the donor to my original face,seems to be the least expensive and simplest way to go. I am going from the white Edge face to the FX4 black with trim ring face.Thank You for your help Ron.

 

There are a few companies that make custom faces as well
here is one: 2004 Ford Ranger Custom Gauges & Gauge Face Kits ? CARiD.com

 

Ron you are one of the members on this forum that goes out of your way to actually help the members,really I want a oem cluster that matches my black truck like this.I'm now think just keeping my cluster and moving the black stuff over to my white cluster then the odometer would not be a issue.