69 Trip Reset Cable End

[Michael C.]

I know the trip reset cable topic has been often addressed, but I haven't seen this particular question. I've attached a photo of the end of the cable that inserts into the trip odometer. As you can see it is no longer nice and square (I assume it was square when new). Currently I have to struggle to reset the numbers. The cable turns mostly freely when bent to simulate the installed configuration. My guess is that the worn end of the cable doesn't seat properly in the trip mechanism. I can insert a small screwdriver into the trip mechanism and the numbers turn freely. The square opening in the mechanism appears to be in good shape.

Has anyone tried to trim the end of the cable an 1/8" or so to restore the square shape? Seems like the worst outcome would be that I have to purchase a new cable (to replace a cable that is virtually useless now).

Thanks,
Mike
TripResetCable.jpg

[Michael L.]

Re: 69 Trip Reset Cable End

I would think that timming it is worth a shot, but I would take off as little as possible, like the 1/8" you mentioned. It may not work but it seems to me you have little to lose.

[Michael C.]

Re: 69 Trip Reset Cable End

Update - Success, kinda/sorta. I trimmed the tip off the cable which enabled me to roll the trip odometer FORWARD, but not reverse to reset. It didn't feel like the cable was turning at all. I took the plunge and removed the entire assembly from the can. Very sparingly put minute amounts of 3-in-1 oil in places I thought might be binding. Eventually I was able to turn the numbers backwards in the reset direction with a small screwdriver inserted in the back of the trip odometer section. After working the numbers back and forth for a while I reassembled the works.

Now the cable will operate the numbers in both directions. However, sometimes the numbers will seize when all four digits are the same. After a bit of turn the cable knob back and forth I get get them all to zero. I can remember this experience from years ago. I think I'll live with this rather than risk making matters worse.
Mike

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: 69 Trip Reset Cable End

Mike,
Glad you're making progress. So, after 52 years of ownership, I'm still unclear as to which direction to turn the knob to re-set. Do you turn to the left (counterclockwise) or to the right (clockwise). Every spring I reset the trip and always get it done but I'm also always afraid I'm doing it backwards and will break something.
Jeff

[Michael C.]

Re: 69 Trip Reset Cable End

Jeff,
Turn CW to reset. If you turn CCW the tenths wheel should increase...as if you're rolling down the road. No harm done if you go backwards. When you push the knob in the gear between the trip odometer and the "main" odometer is disengaged.
Mike

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: 69 Trip Reset Cable End

Mike,
Thanks for the answer. One thing I did find is that if the reset mechanism doesn't go completely back to its default position, it won't register any miles. After having the odometer fixed before I had it judged at a National, the trip did not work. I though it was still broken until I jiggled the knob and it started working properly. I always need to jiggle the knob after resetting to be sure it goes all the way back down.
Jeff