Date:         Wed, 31 May 2006 18:13:24 -0700
Reply-To:     John Bange <jbange@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Bange <jbange@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Speedometer Questions
Comments: To: Craig Morton <rangermorton1972@yahoo.com>
In-Reply-To:  <20060531210017.25660.qmail@web50011.mail.yahoo.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

On 5/31/06, Craig Morton <rangermorton1972@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> My speedometer bit the dust recently. I found the cable to be rounded off
> at the wheel hub and replaced the cable. After re-installing the speedometer
> asembly the odometer works but the speedometer does not. I suspect I may
> have done something to it while removing, cleanig or re-installing as the
> chance of having two failures simultaneously is probably not too great. Is
> there anything I can check or repair that might get the speedometer portion
> working again? I recall that some Jetta speedometers will fit. What years
> will work? Do they have the same cruise control attachment as the Vanagon?


The needle is attached to a steel shell which covers (without touching) a
disc-shaped magnet. The magnet is affixed to the end of the shaft into which
the speedometer drive cable seats. Halfway up this shaft is attached a worm
gear, which drives the odometer train. Since the drive side is still
working, the problem must be on the needle side. Looking at one of my
"spare" speedos here, the only place you could possibly physically impede
the needle mechanism from the back is in the opening for the cruise control
sensor. It's possible something in there is touching the edge of the steel
shell. I suggest removing the cruise control sensor and see if the needle
moves when you spin the shaft with a phillips screwdriver stuck in the back.
If the needle moves and springs back easily when deflected by hand but still
doesn't go when the shaft is spun, then something is very amiss internally.
Maybe a detached magnet? Atany rate, if that's the case, I suggest replacing
it or having a speedo shop fix it.

Other speedometers fit, I think, but I don't know if they're calibrated the
same. US 2WD Vanagon compatible speedos should have the number "805" on the
face (meaning 805 rotations per mile).

--
John Bange
'90 Vanagon - "Geldsauger"