1979 speedo removal
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
1979 speedo removal
I hope someone can please tell me how to remove the speedo from my 79. I have the bezel, the lens and the 3 speedo screws out. Since there's a printed circuit across the backs of the speedo and tach, I'm guessing that all has to come out together. Probably, somehow, have to release the cable. Don't know how. Just want to replace he bulbs which I did in the center cluster.
Pro
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 727
Likes: 113
From: Austin TX area
I have 78 and have removed the assembly several time. I have always loosened the column and let it drop down a bit. You have a screw on each side and a number of screws running across the top of the housing into the dash. There is a harness and the speedo cable which have to be removed. For the speedo, I think there is a clip you have press/squeeze for it to release. You have get under the dash, reach up and feel for the cable. Once the speedo is disconnected you should be able to pull the assembly out and reach behind and squeeze the plug for the harness on the sides and pull, it will be tight after being in there for 40 years. Take some really fine emery paper and clean all the contact for bulb sockets. No sense in replacing bulbs and not cleaning the sockets. The best investment you can make it to purchase the Assembly Instruction Manual (AIM) and the shop service manual. NOT a Hayes, the GM shop manual specific for you year.
Good luck, Bill
Good luck, Bill
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 2,144
Likes: 195
From: Englewood FL
If you have cruise control, disconnect the speedometer cable at the transducer. If you don’t, disconnect the speedometer at the transmission. This enables you to pull out the bezel and reach behind it, to un-clip the speedometer cable and the wire harness connector.
As someone else suggested, remove the two screws under the dash that hold the steering column so it drops down. I put some wide painters tape on the top of the steering column, so the bezel does not scratch the paint as you pull it towards you.
As someone else suggested, remove the two screws under the dash that hold the steering column so it drops down. I put some wide painters tape on the top of the steering column, so the bezel does not scratch the paint as you pull it towards you.
