Speedometer cable binding?

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Topic author
It's Bill
Posts: 279
Joined: Mon Jan 07, 2019 6:41 pm
First Name: Bill
Last Name: Hoffer
Location: Mars, PA
Board Member Since: 2016

Speedometer cable binding?

Post by It's Bill » Tue Jun 01, 2021 4:36 pm

Just hooked up my speedometer making sure the cable ends are properly engaged. The cable is wire, encased in a slippery plastic sheath, which is then inserted into the brass cable housing (spiral wound tube). The wire cable turns freely in the sheath, the speedometer turns freely and registers speed, and the drive is lined up and operates freely. The problem is when the front wheel turns the wire cable "winds up" and then releases rather than turning at a constant, smooth rate. This creates a snapping sound when it releases and gives the speedometer a jolt. The housing is tied to the wishbone at the halfway point of each, making a gentle curve along the housing length. It acts like the inner sheath is not held steady within the housing, allowing it to twist up.

Can someone please give insight or opinions on what to check?

Cheers, Bill


speedytinc
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* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 14/15 wide track roadster. 23 touring, 27 roadster pickup, 20ish rajo touring
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Board Member Since: 2020

Re: Speedometer cable binding?

Post by speedytinc » Tue Jun 01, 2021 5:15 pm

Your speedometer cable is wound in the correct direction? There are cw & ccw winds. The one i built, I used a smaller tubing inside a larger tubing. The cable could not whip around.
Even though its running in plastic tube, lubricate it well. I have been using 3 in 1 silicone oil.


Topic author
It's Bill
Posts: 279
Joined: Mon Jan 07, 2019 6:41 pm
First Name: Bill
Last Name: Hoffer
Location: Mars, PA
Board Member Since: 2016

Re: Speedometer cable binding?

Post by It's Bill » Tue Jun 01, 2021 10:03 pm

I solved it. Road test next week. :D Bill

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