Odd Happenings With Instrument Cluster

[bones]

Anyone else notice this? About 80% of the time I start the engine the instrument gauges all cylce as if I held the ododmeter button in to enter the HEC mode. Only thing is, I'm not touching the odo button. My crazy WAG theory: I still have the factory original battery in my 2003 Terminator and it may be a sign that the battery is about to give it up.
Any opinions?

Thanks

 

[HEMIHUNTER]

Can you borrow a fresh battery to start the car with?
And I'd change it anyway.

 

[bigmoose]

most local auto parts stores will test your battery for free. put a voltmeter across the terminals when its running and check the voltage, if your alt is still good it should read 13-14 volts.

 

[Silverboost]

check the battery and the alternator. Low voltage in these cars make them do so funny things.

 

[MaximumVelocity]

The gauges full sweep when battery voltage falls below 9-10v. The PCM is just acting like you disconnected the battery.

It may just be a loose/ corroded terminal...or the battery/ alternator are on the way out.

 

[Juruense]

Charging system fault, its gonna get worse unless you diagnose and correct.

 

[bones]

FYI. It was the battery.

Thanks to all who responded.