The 1914 T I bought this spring came with a 1916 style Stewart speedometer. The cable that came with the car is 65" long from end to end and had the original chain link type cable inside. Unfortunately, when I took the assembly off the links mostly came apart. Now that I'm ready to reassemble the speedometer, should I reuse the link type cable? I see they sell a plastic replacement cable that slips inside the original housing, but they only come in foot increments. I'm assuming I would buy a six foot cable and cut it down to fit my 65" housing? As always, any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I installed one of the replacement kits and it was fairly simple. Buy one a little longer than what you need, you have to cut it to fit. You can download the directions from the Langs web site and get a feel for the job before buying. I've got 4500 miles on mine with no issues.
There is no reason not to run the chain. I have them in all my brass cars and they work very well. Just be sure to lubricate them well and pre-load the cable when you do the install.
Bill -- The links can come apart out of the cable housing, but they'll stay together when inside. I'd rather use them than the replacement cable.
The links are superior to the cheap bicycle cable insert. They should be easy to reassemble, and if you keep them greased, will never cause you any trouble.
Sounds like I will be re-assembling the links then! What do you recommend for greasing them, and do you grease them after they are in the cable?
Bill,
The links are the best way to go. Grease them with a boat wheel bearing grease. You need to shorten your cable to 48 inches or you will have trouble. The replacement cables at $60 each can be very expensive if they break and need to be replaced. You will have extra links once you shorten your cable.
I hope this helps,
Russ Furstnow
I have a bag with some extra chain links if someone needs some for repair.
Bob
I have three T's, and they all have links. I have never had a problem with them. I grease mine with plain chassis grease. Get as much in there as you can.
I also use chain links and to lubricate, I run a piece of baling wire through the chain housing, (which the other end is clamped in my vise), hook it to the leading link and drag it through my hand which has a big gob of chassis grease (or Russ' suggestion) in it and walk away from my vice - pretty simple.