Hello. Russ, if you're out there, I could use some advice! I saw you at Bakersfield last time and FORGOT to ask you: I have a 1915 Johns-Manville Ford Special speedometer that works. It has never been apart, from the looks of it. As you know, it is a needle type, the type not covered in your excellent video. Should I attempt to disassemble it to clean and lubricate? Or, should I leave it alone? I would HATE to crake that beautiful bevelled lens, etc. What to do? Thanks!
Jeff

Hi Jeff,
I just got back from California while visiting my mom. The J-M speedo head is a very nice unit. It is a centrifugal-type unit that uses weights to make the needle move.

This head is not too complicated to work on, and the only issue would be if the ball bearings that hold the main shaft are out of adjustment. If you are very careful, you can tap the bezal off using a small screwdriver. Then remove the needle by prying it off with two identical screwdrivers. Then remove the two screws holding the odometer and you can clean and inspect the internal components. If the ball bearings look good, soak the entire unit in lacquer thinner and lube the bearings and shaft with sewing machine oil.

If you don't want the aggravation of all of the above, send it to me and I'll check it our for you. Thanks for the questions, and I hope this helps.

Russ Furstnow

Thanks, Russ. I appreciate the information. I'm just a trifle leery about prying that needle off the shaft! I'll mull it over, and if in doubt, I'll send it to you. Thanks again, and have a good Thanksgiving!

Jeff