How do you change the speedometer cable on a 1964 thunderbird?

Answer 1

First, disconnect your battery.

You'll then need to remove the instrument cluster to get to the speedometer. This can be an adventure in itself if you're not familiar with it. Give yourself lots of time and be patient. Some people suggest removing the steering wheel as well and placing masking tape along the steering column to avoid scratching. These are great ideas and make the removal of the cluster much easier.

Once you get to the speedometer, you'll see the speedometer drive cable attached to the right side of the unit. The other end is connected to the output shaft of the transmission.

To replace the speedometer drive cable, disconnect the cable housing from the speedometer, and pull the cable out of the housing. If the cable is broken, disconnect both ends of the cable housing in order to remove all broken sections.

Wipe off the old lubricant and lubricate with new cable lubricant. Don't over lubricate.

Insert the cable all the way into the housing, and twist it slightly to make sure that the square drive is in engaged in the speedometer driven gear.

Tighten the mounting bolt to 20-25 foot pounds torque.

Note: The speedometer driven gear is held on to the speedometer cable housing by a retainer clip. When replacing the driven gear, make certain that the gear is secure by placing the gear in position before inserting the retainer clip through the gear slots.