<VV> Speedometer problem - (long)

[Dale Dewald]

At 23:47 8/25/2008 -0400, Dave Thompson wrote:
>OK,
>This subject brings up a question...
>
>My 63 Spyder speedo chirps & squeals now and then. It only happens for a few
>seconds every 30 miles or so. The needle wiggles only while it is squealing.
>Otherwise it is very stable.

In my experience this fits more with a failing speedometer.  The cable is 
probably okay.

>The other responses have validated my thoughts of fixing it. As suggested, I
>plan to add a little graphite into the cable housing from the speedo end and
>run it. Do you guys think that I might also plan to replace the entire cable
>eventually?

I would inspect the entire cable from outside and check for damage or 
kinks.  FWIW I have never seen a failed EM or FC speedometer cable that has 
not been externally damaged. There is no significant flexing between the 
differential and the rest of the car in EM's and FC's. A broken cable is 
very common in the LM cars because there is constant large motions of the 
cable with its attachment to right front spindle.

>  I read someplace NOT to replace just the inside but to replace
>the cable and housing.

Always the thing to do with a LM.

>  Has anyone had the actual speedo squeal or is it most
>likely just the old cable?

The squealing /squealing noise from a failing speedometer is very common in 
Spyder and Corsa units that have the trip odometer.  The extra torque 
required to drive the trip odo eventually causes the main worm gear to 
fail.  Metal filings from the gear get attracted to the head magnet and 
"gum up the works," so to speak.  The needle starts to bounce and the main 
shaft bushing makes noise.

I am afraid it is time for you to rebuild the speedometer.  You may be able 
to get a little more life out of it by disassembling it and cleaning out 
all of the metal filings.  Re-lube the main shaft with a few drops of high 
quality [turbine] oil and use a dab of high quality synthetic [with moly] 
grease on each worm.  Do this NOW before it quits for good.  Please note 
that speedometer work is like watch repair; if you are in any way 
ham-fisted, it might be better to send it to a specialist.

Dale Dewald
Hancock, MI