35 Speedometer apart...need advice.

[Capt Kirk]

I decided to jump into this speedometer problem I'm having. I have it apart and I'm guessing I found the problem. The old oil is pretty gummy and is causing a lot of drag on the mechanisms. Inserting a small Torx into the end, I can turn it and all the gears and stuff are working but it's dragging. What's the best way to clean the gunk out and what kind of oil should I use once it's clean. I thought about spraying it with starting fluid or carb/brake cleaner and then using something like 3 in 1 oil to lube. Awaiting your advice...thanks!

 

[Lawson Cox]

Sounds like plan, but don't get starter fluid on the face, as it will probably ruin it.

Be sure to take out the small welch plug and clean and lubricate well.

I used a hypodermic needle to put a drop of oil on the moving parts.

 

[Capt Kirk]

Thanks Lawson,
I just took the face off so it wouldn't get ruined, can I remove the 3 screws to remove the odometer/trip counter support so I don't ruin those as well?

What and where is a welch plug?

 

[38bill]

You should pull it apart a little more so you can remove the face and odometer wheels before you start. The numbers on the odometer could wash off and or get greasy during the cleaning process. The face comes off easily. I just (carefully) bent up one pair of the little tabs to remove mine. They can break off, that's why I like to only bend as few as required to get it off. One you have these parts off I would think any good part cleaner would work. My speedo had problems other than being gummed up but I do like carb cleaner for fast dry time.


Your speedo looks like my SW. If its the same as mine you can remove the screws that hold the odometer/trip odometer frame and remove the assembly.

 

[Capt Kirk]

Thanks 38Bill, I took the odometer frame off and got everything cleaned up and lubed. Everything went back together fine EXCEPT the needle (which fell off when I was driving). I tried and tried to get it in the hole but it wouldn't go...the little spring shaft that the needle goes into was wobbling around a bit and I couldn't get it in. I took the face back off as well as the little brass "jet" looking screw and I couldn't see a hole in the spring shaft. I'm assuming the needle broke off in there which, I am again assuming, means I'm screwed. Guess I'll put it back together and back in the car without a needle till I can find a decent replacement.

 

[38bill]

This is what mine looks like. The needle slides over the shaft.

 

[Capt Kirk]

Here's what mine looks like. Shaft is broken but at least I can save the needle now.

 

[Paul Bennett]

There is always "Palo Alto Speedometer" the primier speedometer repair shop paspeedo.com
big shop, big backlog, best, not cheapest.



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[Kerk]

speedometer 1935 If it has raised ribs on the back of the case it would be a Stewart Warner from my experience. Hope that helps . kx

 

[Kerk]

Re: 35 Speedometer apart...need advice. Atewart Warner.

Stewart Warner I believe. kerk

 

[papanick]

Hay if you need it rebuild let me know if I can help you out. jrnichols642@yahoo.com

 

[Capt Kirk]

Hay if you need it rebuild let me know if I can help you out. jrnichols642@yahoo.com

Papa...sent you an email

 

[papanick]

let me know when you can send it in.