Wobble in Speedometer

1930Ford

1930Ford

Junior Member
1930 Model A

Problem: Severe wobble in the speedometer. Fluctuates wildly back and forth and never stops while driving. Bench tested the speedometer by attaching a low rpm drill and it seems the gauge works properly - though because of the low rpm the speedometer didn't up too far.

Question: Is the problem most likely in the speedometer cable?
 
Okay so mine is not a 1930 Model A, but the principal should be the same. I pulled the cable out of the housing in my 1953 Mercury, because the speedometer was "bouncing". I then soaked the cable in parts cleaner I get from Harbor Freight. I then sprayed the cable with "Blaster Graphite Dry Lubricant". I also used the plastic nozzle and sprayed it down the inside of the housing. Once completely reassembled, it works great. Got the product from Home Depot.
 

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I've always used what manufacturers call out on different teleflex type cables. Most use Lubriplate 130-AA. Molybdenum disulfide based grease or moly grease can be used where the chance of moisture ingress is low. If moisture mixes with the stuff is can cause metal corrosion. Lubriplate white lithium type greases have always been favored in areas where moisture may ingress since it doesn't hurt the lubricating qualities of the mix and keeps corrosion to a minimum.
 
The problem I've found w/lubriplate is that in applications w/minimal, infrequent use, it tends to separate, the oil moves up and the other ingredients settle.
 
I'm having the same problem with my speedometer. About a month ago I asked what lubricant to use and was told that white lithium grease turns stiff after a while. I've tried the spray graphite, but it didn't solve the problem. What's the best lube to use?
Marty
 
Try the cleaning and lubrication of the cable but may be that the cable is kinked and you will need a new one. Another problem may be that the drum inside the speedo is rubbing but you said it worked OK on a drill motor so that is unlikely. You can try running the speedo with the drill motor through the cable to see if you can duplicate the osculations that way. If you get different results with and without the cable then the cable is suspect. Also try oiling the speedo with some light oil like 3 in 1. Turn the speedo input shaft with your fingers. If it turns hard then the cable can be winding up and letting go like a spring.
 
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Thanks all. Nkaminar, I have a new cable and housing coming this week from Obsolete Ford in Oklahoma City. The speedometer was serviced by Papanick but the wild bounce remains. I've tried a different inner cable but no luck. I'm hoping the new housing will cure the problem. I still need to lube it when it arrives and my question was - with what?
Marty
 
did you check the mag justment you may need to set the pull on the mag to slow down the wing of the speed wheel.
 
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