1966 Odometer Stuck

[Paul L.]

My 1966 odometer is no longer moving. Previously it would stick for a while and then begin to move. While it was stuck, the speedometer needle would "jump". Is this something to do with the gears in the speedometer head? Can this be fixed by replacing the odometer wheels, trip odometer wheels and metal speedometer drive gear?

[Stephen L.]

Re: 1966 Odometer Stuck

Sounds like you want to replace all the moving parts. If you take it apart the problem will probably be evident... possibly a good cleaning and replacement of the worn part(s) will fix it. Don't forget the cable lubricant.

I've done mine and all it needed was a cleaning.

[Richard M.]

Re: 1966 Odometer Stuck

It's likely that both gears are worn. The odometer gear will look the worst, but the main(magnet) shaft/gear should be replaced also. I did just the odometer gear at first and the because the main gear was worn I had to start all over again.

The new speedo gears(with the magnet that rotates the speedo cup) are not magnetized. In the photo of old and new below, the top one is the replacement. Notice it is not U shaped like original. You will have to bring it to a repair shop to have it magnetized and calibrated. This is what I had to do on a '67 recently.

Or you can just send it to a shop and let them fix it up for you. I use Bill Harrison for all of my instrument needs. http://www.harrisonspeedometer.com

Rich
p.s. Paul..... I just noticed it's your first post and recently joined. Welcome!!!

[Paul L.]

Re: 1966 Odometer Stuck

Thanks for this info. I could not find any such information in my service manual. GM suggested that the offending speedometer be taken to a speedometer shop. On another post, it was suggested that a cleaning of the trip odometer reset cable might solve the problem but this was a long shot for a cure. It seems that I should be resolved to remove the instrument cluster and replace these parts. I understand that steering column removal is required to remove the cluster. My service manual indicates that the cluster may be removed without removing the steering column. It may be easier to remove with the steering column out of the way.

[John H.]

Re: 1966 Odometer Stuck

My service manual indicates that the cluster may be removed without removing the steering column. It may be easier to remove with the steering column out of the way.

Paul -

These two links may be helpful for cluster removal and installation:

http://www.lbfun.com/warehouse/tech_info/gauges%20&%20instruments/C2_Dash_Cluster%20pt1.pdf

http://www.lbfun.com/warehouse/tech_info/gauges%20&%20instruments/C2_Dash_Cluster%20pt2.pdf

[Ronald L.]

Re: 1966 Odometer Stuck

It can be done very carefully by lowering the column, not full removal per se if you are very very careful and take your time.