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69 corvette tach problems

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Old Aug 9, 2020 | 08:08 PM
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Default 69 corvette tach problems

I have been trying to diagnose a bouncy tachometer in my 69 427 coupe.

I removed the dash in order to install a vintage air kit. I replaced the tach cable while the dash was removed. I also replaced the tach needle.

i installed the needle according to the Wilcox video instructions. When I twist the dial in the back by hand it appears to function normally. When I reinstalled the dash and started the engine the tach needle bounces wildly and will eventually fall off

can someone help me diagnose this? I can’t tell you how many times I have removed and reinstalled the dash. Beyond frustrated.
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Old Aug 9, 2020 | 08:13 PM
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Do you have the original cable to try?
Does the cable connection at the distributor have any sharp bends?
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Old Aug 9, 2020 | 08:19 PM
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Originally Posted by MelWff
Do you have the original cable to try?
Does the cable connection at the distributor have any sharp bends?
I tossed the old cable unfortunately. Yes there is a rather sharp curve right before it enters the firewall.
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Old Aug 9, 2020 | 08:53 PM
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Do you think the cable is getting in a bind? Should I grease it?
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Old Aug 10, 2020 | 12:02 AM
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I had a similar problem along with chirping from both speedo and tach cables. I disconnected the tach cable at the distributor and sprayed PJ1 Cable lube down the open end, holding the cable up so it would work its way down the cable. Did the same for the speedo but disconnected at the trans. Problem solved for both.Dead quiet and both steady.
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Old Aug 10, 2020 | 12:11 AM
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I bought this to lubricate the cable.



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Old Aug 10, 2020 | 06:42 AM
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did you try to spin the tach cable with a drill and see if the needle bounces? I'd reclock the distributor so the vacuum advance comes out behind the distributor box bracket to lessen the amount of bend in the tach cable.
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Old Aug 10, 2020 | 09:27 AM
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Originally Posted by 3X2
did you try to spin the tach cable with a drill and see if the needle bounces? I'd reclock the distributor so the vacuum advance comes out behind the distributor box bracket to lessen the amount of bend in the tach cable.
I will try that when I remove it. I have a 90 degree joint at the distributor to address the cable turn there. The turn at the fire wall is a little sharp is where I think it is binding.
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