Speedometer Cable

[Linusrp]

Does anyone know if a 5-speed speedometer cable will work on a 4-speed speedo? Thanks.

[itsa68]

For low windshields SPL used 1800 mm long cables, SRL used 1900 mm cables.
For high windshields SPL and SRL's used 1900 mm long cables.
I believe the connection ends are the same for both types of speedometers, but do not have an early one to verify this.
One of the other members may know if the connection ends are the same.

Ray B.

[Redtail]

Does anyone know if the 90 degree swivels between the speedo cable and the tranny are the same over all years and models? I have a replacement I need to put on, but could not fit it between the mounting point on the tranny and the frame rail.
Thanks

[S Allen]

The cables mount up the same on the speedo end. The 90 angle piece was only used on the 4 speeds. You should not need it for a 5 speed.

Steve

[spl310]

Just to ad a twist to things, the 1500 cables don't interchange (3 seat cars) as they have a different fitting on the instrument end.

[joe fremeau]

Hi can't get my speedometer to work. The speedo works fine when attached to a drill but once i attach it to the tranny it has no movement. I read about a 90 degree adapter. Do i need the adapter on my 4 speed to make it work. Thanks for the help.

[Bwk2000]

Hi can't get my speedometer to work. The speedo works fine when attached to a drill but once i attach it to the tranny it has no movement. I read about a 90 degree adapter. Do i need the adapter on my 4 speed to make it work. Thanks for the help.

Unless it was previously modified for use without the adaptor (requires different cable length), you will need one. There are a few good (cheaper) options than Datsun OEM available as others have alluded to in the link below:

viewtopic.php?t=12963&hilit=Speedo+cable+4+speed


Also, if the above doesn’t help fix the problem, then JT’s assessment of the problem (from a different thread, excerpt below) is likely correct and it’s a stripped cable drive gear:

On the 4-speeds there should be a right angle gear drive. It is a separate part from the cable. I'm sure we have one or two or five...

If the speedo works normally driven with a grill, the nylon or brass gear in the transmission that drives the cable is probably stripped. (the steel gear on the mainshaft never really fails)

To inspect the gear, remove the circular black speedo gear sleeve that you have been attaching the cable to. It is held in place by a tab and bolt and an o-ring, but will slide right out. Some 90weight will probably drip on you lol..

[Gregs672000]

Have you checked the transmission end of the cable? My speedo stopped (actually froze inside) and broke the cable end off at the trans. It's not easy to remove sometimes... Needle nose pliers or such to get it to loosen before you can turn it by hand in my case.