Speedometer Whine

[spesce]

My 68 W200 was sitting for at least the last 14 years and finally have the thing restored. I have 35,000 miles on the truck. When cold, my speedometer whines and the needle jumps up 10-30 mph. Once the whining stops, the speed is accurate even with the 37s.

About 1 week ago, I removed the cable from the back of the dash, pulled the inside cable out and lubed with speedometer cable oil. This seemed to have fixed the problem for about a week and now it seems the whine is louder and longer than before.

Any ideas on how to correct this? Is it the cable or is it the speedometer?

Thanks,

[JimE]

Try using white lithium grease instead. I did it to my Power wagon along with at least 3 other trucks I've owned without a problem. Jim

[dodgeboykim]

Try also lubing speedo head.

[spesce]

It was explained to me how to access the felt to lube the speedometer. Once I did this, there has been no noise what so ever. As Bud mentioned I do not think most speedometers have been lubed since they came of the line.

All good now. Thanks for your help.

[johnah]

Just had mine rebuilt http://www.bobsspeedometer.com/1/120/index.asp
Wasn't cheap but it is as good as new.

[fireguyfire]

Hey Spesce; can you fill us in on how you lubed the speedometer? I too recently lubed my inner cable with white lithium but the speedo itself still makes a racket when driving.
Would love to know how to access the felt and lube it up!

[PwrWgnDrvr]

Remove the cluster, on top of the speedometer tail there is a tiny hole. It is usually plugged with dirt and grime. Clean it with a needle and apply fine oil into the hole. Spin it to help it penetrate and coat the bushing.

[poorboy4wd]

Can we at least see a Pic of your truck on 37s? Haha I'm a 4x4 nut and like to see all the lifted trucks

[spesce]

I have been out of commission that last few weeks. Sorry for the delay.

There is a very small brass plug on the top of the speedometer that needs to be removed prior to oiling.

Second, Go look at the 4x4 forum and I have pictures and youtube video links to the truck. It is awesome to dive and show off at car shows even though it is a daily driver. I will be finishing the interior this winter and try to quite down some of the noise.

[WD]

I will be finishing the interior this winter and try to quite down some of the noise.

Styrofoam sheets from the home improvement place. Cut and glue into the doors, around the gas tank and in the cab ceiling (double layer of metal). If you do the firewall, upholster the panels before installing, keeps them from tearing up as quickly.

2 birds with one product, reduces noise and cab temperature fluctuations.