RPM Needle Warped

[Bota2026]

The RPM needle gauge on my 2013 MX5100F is warped and pressing against the plastic in the gauge cluster. It won’t move freely now. Anyone have any suggestions to fix it or info on where one could procure a new needle?

Picture attached for reference.

 

[Bee-Positive]

Remove the panel board and try to straighten it???
Maybe gently use a heat gun to soften it so it bends easier.

 

[GeoHorn]

Look at the Bright-Side….. I’ll bet you’re getting Fantastic Fuel-mileage compared to RPM tho…!

(Seriously, and Obviously, the instrument cluster will have to be disassembled to straighten the needle. Perhaps storing the tractor outside or in the sunny/hot place is a contributing factor..?)

 

[Bota2026]

Thanks for the replies, I'll try to disassemble the cluster and bend the needle. Seems like a new cluster ($362 ) is the only way to get it straightened out. Just wish I could figure out where Kubota sourced the needle because that's probably a heck of a lot cheaper than a whole new cluster.

Next on the list is a lean to to store it out of the sun and rain.

 

[GeoHorn]

At least put a cover or tarp over it.

The idea to use a hair-dryer to re-shape the plastic needle may work, but I’d avoid trying to remove the pointer from the spindle. I’d warm it with a hair dryer then re-shape it with tweezers or by placing a roll of paper-towel (diameter of a cigarette) under the needle near it’s base and press the tip of it down away from the lens while it cools.

Good luck.

 

[GreensvilleJay]

As others have said, remove the cluster, unclip the front cover off, gently heat needle, press and hold needle until cool.
for sure , 'cover' the dash with a small tarp.

 

[GeoHorn]

You’re going to experience an issue heating it with the hair dryer… in so far as possible, …. You want to heat the needle Only…. not the faceplate or other parts.

While blowing hot air on the needle you might have a sheet ot aluminum-foil placed beneath it to protect the faceplate.from heat.