I have a 97 cherokee sport with 205k miles. The instrument panel quit working. It lights up, shows turn signals, and high beams but instruments don't work. Do you have any suggestions. I tried replacing panel and it did not work I tried fuses under hood and passenger side box. I unplugged harness by drivers foot but I can't think of anything else. Anyone know how to do diagnostic test on a 97?

 

I have the same problem with my '98. I just bought the Jeep so I haven't found a solution other than hitting the dash. The panel only seems to go out when I'm messing with the overhead console. Anybody have any suggestions other than the "hit it" method!?

 

This is a fairly common problem and typically the fix is the plug on the back of the instrument cluster itself. Usually it can be cleaned and dielectric grease used to make a better connection, however I do believe that your local Jeep dealer should have an updated plug to "fix" the problem.
My 93 has the same issue, but I do not believe the new dealer plug will work. I think it may be for the new style clusters.