When I have the windshield wipers turned on for more than about 10 minutes in my '03 SS, the instrument cluster momentarily dies. All gauges drop and the battery icon displays in my message center. The whole cluster immediately turns back on and displays all readings accurately.

-Only the cluster shuts off (radio, cruise, headlamps, and HVAC don't shut off)
-Only happens with the wipers running
-Just bought a new battery (previous one was dated 2008)
-Never happens more than once while driving
-I don't have any accessories drawing additional current

Another thing I noticed is that anytime I'm driving, I can faintly see the ODO display flicker. Can any of you speculate whether I need to do some wire tracing or replace either the cluster or my alternator?

 

Start with something easy, I know you said you just changed the battery, but go to your local parts store. Have them do a "Battery and Alternator" test (they can test both on the car).
Even though it's a new battery, it could have a problem. BUT, if it's either of those two, my guess is the alternator. But have them check it out (it's quick, easy and free).

 

Thanks, I'll try that. I did have to jump my car once after I installed the new battery. If somehow both test out OK, I guess the big 3 upgrade could be a next step. We'll go from there though.

 

Not sure what you mean by "big 3 upgrade".

But if you had to jump the car and did not leave something on, that sounds like a clear indication something is not right.

My battery was bad for a couple years. Since I did not drive the car in the winter, I did not totally notice it. If the car sat for about a week, the battery would go dead. When it went dead after 3 days, I got it tested (that was I think this past June). It tested bad, so I just replaced it. No more problems.

 

I would check all of the connections under the hood an make sure everything is tight. Especially the auxiliary post. My daughters car had similar issues and it was caused by a loose connection at the aux. The plastic was cracked and causing it to not make contact.

Also you may want to check any connections on the back of the cluster.

 

The big 3 is an upgrade done by big audio junkies to run bigger wire from alternator to battery etc. I'll check the connections later today and give you guys an update.

 

I cleaned up the main alternator and ground terminals, also let the battery charge overnight and I've noticed less dimming (until the subwoofers get turned on!)