Autometer Cobra Speedometer Erratic

Sledge · #1 (**permalink**) 02-03-2008, 09:21 AM

All of a sudden, after installing a new speedo cable, my Autometer speedo began to give erratic, mostly slow indications. I checked both ends of the speedo cable and the gear going into the transmission and everything looks good. The cable is not broken and the gears are not stripped. Anybody else experience this and find a solution?

Thanks

CHANMADD · #2 (**permalink**) 02-03-2008, 09:36 AM

Oil the cable!!!!

xlr8or · #3 (**permalink**) 02-03-2008, 11:56 AM

yep.. oil the cable or use a dry graphite lube and ease up on some of the curves in the cable.

Sledge · #4 (**permalink**) 02-03-2008, 02:31 PM

Okay guys thank you--it is a new, freshly lubed cable with minimal bends. It has been working great for the last three weeks. I'm thinking that there may be something askew with the magnets within the speedo. So, off to a shop it goes.

Thx

xlr8or · #5 (**permalink**) 02-03-2008, 04:39 PM

If you have a reverser on the speedo you may want to make sure it is well greased too.

Chaplin · #6 (**permalink**) 02-03-2008, 05:35 PM

The other thing to check is the length of the cable end that fits into the speedo. If it is longer than the one on your old cable, it could be bottoming out in the speedo which will prevent it from turning freely. I had a similar problem with my autometer speedometer- I just put a couple small washers around the cable end to shim it out from the speedo a little bit and the problem was solved.

Sledge · #7 (**permalink**) 02-05-2008, 09:34 AM

Thanks TJ and Chaplin, tried both suggestions, no change. I think the magnets and the needle spring are no longer in harmony and will need fixing or replacement....

Thx!

Nor Cal Al · #8 (**permalink**) 02-05-2008, 12:49 PM

I had the same problem with my Backdraft #128. Reg told me to remove the bushing on the little driveshaft in the right angle gearbox that attaches to the back of the speedo. It tended to bind up. I did, then packed it with silicon lube and it did fine. I had mine replaced by Autometer when the dial face came off. The new one does seem to run smoother than the old one. Had about 6K miles on it. Be sure the connection on the back of the speedo is tight also. Talk to Reg or Autometer. Autometer was very responsive.
AL