I am not sure about this, but my guess is that it is the ECM (much like the hard drive of a computer) it does it when you turn the ignition on, Mine isn't loud, but if you listen closely, I can hear it once in a while.
has anyone else had a problem with the cluster making a noise that sounds like gears or something turning almost like a timer while its running.
Yes i heard some wierd noise the other day when I shut the car off. It sounded kind of like a clock ticking? I don't think its anything to worry about though
__________________
2008 Mustang 4.0L V6 - Candy Apple Red Performance: FRPP Dual Exhaust With X Pipe,K&N Drop-In Air Filter Looks: GT Spoiler, White Racing Stripes, Sequential Taillights, GT500 Pedals & Dead Pedal, Window Tinting
well i cant hear it when im driving just when i either turn the car off or when im idling i can hear it. and even idling with the magnaflows i can still hear it. stl said they all do it, but the weird part is that i never heard this before. maybe it is gonna self destruct itself hopefully still under warranty tho.
__________________
2006 V6 Pony Package 5 spd in Satin Silver - rear tinted windows 20%, Magnaflow Dual exhaust conversion with GT bumper, custom x-pipe, CDC chin spoiler, C&L Trueflow intake with Bamachips tunes for Xcal 3, Hurst Competition Plus short throw shifter removed - back to stock, roush hood scoop, painted mirror covers, painted calipers, done for now.
I had it bad, even after shutting the car for 10 seconds or so, or until the door was opened. It was coming from the tach without a doubt. I pulled the cluster fuse and started the car, no noise. After putting the fuse back in the sound is still there, but nowhere near as loud, you actually have to listen very closely while the car is running. I forgot all about it until seeing this post, give it a try and see if it helps.
noisy instrument cluster 
