As stated in title.

Specifically:

1) Is there a problem with using the auto cluster in my manual Civic? Will the auto gears (PRND21) be visible and look bad even though there is no auto connector to plug into the rear of the cluster? Or must I find a manual EX cluster?

2) Is swapping my 97 Civic DX speedometer/odometer into the 00 Civic EX cluster straightforward, as suggested in the DIY link in the FAQs sticky?

 

It should be plug and play. When I still had my EK DX hatch I swapped in a auto EX cluster and everything worked as it should. And like you mentioned you don't plug anything into the gear selector housing so they don't light up, it looks kinda weird but just cover the gauge face with black marker or electrical tape like I did and you should be fine :D

 

This^ was my next question. Is there a more classy method for hiding the auto gears?

And did you swap the original speedo/odo into the EX cluster?

 

im using an auto cluster from an EX in my 99 ek ... the gears prnd doesnt light up for me....and it doesnt bother me at all... it doesnt function or turn on its basically just there..... everything else functions for me....all plugs are good....you should be fine.....

 

I got lazy and just used the entire auto cluster because surprisingly it had almost the same mileage as my original cluster :D

But I think the easiest way would be electrical tape until you can find a 5 speed EX cluster. You can try marker but I found out that marker is far darker than the black face of the gauges

You could try taking off the face and marker it from behind? But kinda seems like a hassle.

Just my .02

 

works fine, the lights do not illuminate. ive CAREFULLY masked the face of the gauge and painted over the small prndl section with satin black paint. looks better than tape.

 

This works.

 

I run an Automatic SiR-II (eg6) cluster in my 5-speed eh hatch with no problems. I can see the prnd2d, but who gives a **** really.

 

Btw, you can buy the fuel/temp gauge assembly brand new for $33.34 from BK honda, majestic honda is probably a little cheaper again. 78130-S41-C71 METER ASSY., FUEL & TEMPERATURE

 

Ah, this is also an option worth considering.