here is where i am at now...
-the 8mm LEDs work perfectly. none of them flickered none of them were faulty. I used 10 so far which wasnt enough. Im adding 10 more tomorrow to get rid of all the hot spots.
-the white wedge LEDs dont work in the cluster. I believe there is a relay for the cluster and the LEDs arent drawing enough power to complete the circuit. I am ordering red 8mm leds now to light up the needles.
lucky for you guys i am figuring all this crap out by trail and error and when i finish, it will be easy for you.
most led bulbs are polarity sesitive. did you try fliping them around? all of my cluster bulbs are plug-in replacement wedge bulbs, thats how i know.