Erratic speedo up to about 30mph

46woodie

Senior Member
Speedo on my 46 is pretty erratic up to about 30-40mph. The cable gos through a gear changer for my Columbia then to my speedo. Any suggestions why I cant get steady reading while driving?thanks
 
Either the cable is dry, needs grease, or its not routed correctly, needs smoother less kinky corners
 
Disassemble the Columbia supplied Stewart Warner speedometer "transmission" while you're at it.
 
You can buy actual speedo grease intended for this, but I just use a lithium based grease. Not the white stuff, it tends to dry up and get hard over time.
 
I oiled a speedo cable once, and it did not help. I then greased it and it did help. I think the grease acts as a damper of sorts and damps down the fast/slow action.
The fast/slow action is normally generated at a kink in the cable so check the routing. Also check it is not close to the exhaust at any point.
Mart.
 
Just a tip. When you disconnect the cable from the speedometer, immediately cover the end with a plastic baggy or some such. Those things tend to have a mind of their own and can leave skid marks on your kick panel and/or upholstery when you're pulling them out. No need to ask how I know.
 
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