Yes, it could have been a wiring or installation issue...although I will tell you the Rally gauge clocks and tachs usually need rebuilt. The other cluster could have been dead too if the voltage limiter on the back crapped out , as the gas/oil/temp gauges are powered by it. This is the problem most of us face buying cars from owners that may not have been so bright...But don't feel bad. Honestly, when you get those gauges back at least you will have piece of mind that they work and are calibrated. Then if something doesn't work, we knows it's the wiring.