The Oldsmobile Connection

[Rick87]

Hey guys, got another problem here, this time the issue is with my speedometer/odometer. It was always kind of shaky at 0-15, reading erraticly from 0-15 all the way until it hit around 16 and it would straighten out. Now, it doesn't work at all. Recently I discovered that it does work, but only when moving in neutral.

Any ideas would be appreciated.

[88 Coupe]

Assuming, an '81 98.

Rick87 wrote: ........ reading erraticly from 0-15 all the way until it hit around 16 ........
Usual cause: Speedo cable needs lubrication.

Rick87 wrote: ........ Now, it doesn't work at all ........
Usual cause: Cable is broken.

Rick87 wrote: ........ it does work, but only when moving in neutral ........
This tells us, the cable is intact.

Drive and/or driven gears, at the trans end of the cable, are the next suspects. If so, the driven gear, is more likely the cause.

Remove the housing from the trans, and spin the cable with a variable speed drill motor. If the speedo works (60 MPH at 3600 RPM) the problem is at the trans.

Norm

[phaZe]

I'm having the same problem with the speedometer moving erratically between 0-15 mph, but I also have a problem with the speed being off by around 5 mph. The tires are stock size, it has a TH350 in it. Should I try lubricating the speedometer cable or would just buying a new one solve both problems?

[88 Coupe]

Adding to my first post:

Real speedo lube is fast becoming extinct. The following product, for chain saws, seems to be a good substitute.



"Graphite" is the common ingredient.

phaZe wrote: ........ speedometer moving erratically between 0-15 mph ........Should I try lubricating the speedometer cable ........
Yes.

phaZe wrote: ........ problem with the speed being off by around 5 mph ........
Not related to this topic. It deserves its own thread.

Norm

[Rick87]

thanks for the info, 88. I'll give it a try as soon as I have some free time.