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Old Apr 27, 2011 | 01:37 AM
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Default speedo problems

I've got a 76 and recently the speedo only goes up to around 30-35mph. It will not go any higher than this no matter how fast I go. My dad told me that it is probably the speedo cable that is going bad. I've never dealt with a problem like this, but to me if its the cable thats going bad, wouldn't it just not work? If any one has an idea why it only goes into the 30's let me know.
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Old Apr 27, 2011 | 01:50 AM
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I would try pulling the cable and cleaning and correctly lubricating it.

Unfortunately this is not as easy as it sounds, you have to pull the cable from the top, behind the speedometer.

What I have done is lay on your back on the floor underneath the speedo / tach and use a long flat blade screwdriver to release the locking tab on the cable, then pull it back and aim it towards the floor. You can pull the inner cable out and clean and re-lube. Obviously if it is damaged you'd replace it.
Getting it back in is as much fun as getting it out. Taking the seat out (4 bolts) can make it easier.

BTW - speedometer cables can do weird things, jump around, work sometimes and sometimes not, only go up so high etc.

Hope that helps,
Frank

Last edited by myoriginal77; Apr 27, 2011 at 01:51 AM. Reason: typo
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Old Apr 27, 2011 | 10:39 AM
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Unfortunately, that's as fast as a '76 will go. 35mph is the actual top speed.

j/k

Before you rip anything apart, take the car out on the highway and drive a measured distance, say 5 or 10 miles. If the odometer records accurately, the cable is OK but the speedo section needs an overhaul. If the odo does not record correctly, remove the speedo cable drive gear from the transmission and look for wear and correct tooth count.
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