Topic: Speedometer Cable Routing
in Forum: C3 Interior
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Gold MemberScotch Plains, NJ - USA
Joined: 1/11/2006
Posts: 241
Vette(s): 1981 Corvette Coupe, Stock, Black on Black,
4 Spd
Need help with routing my new speedo cable from the firewall gromment to the gauge. I installed the new cable but seems it's a wee shorter than the original. When I step on the brake or clutch they hit the speedo cable.
Any direction or photos would help.
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Lifetime MemberManteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold
1975 L48 4 speed
Hi Jeff. I don't guess I'll be much help to ya. If you held those side by side and one is actually shorter, that may be the issue right there. I just did that job and the cable I got from Napa was obviously universal cause it was over a foot too long. Except for looping and tieing off the excess there were no issues, but I taped a wire to the end of the cable when I removed it so it would take the same route back when I pulled it through. I wasn't aware of the clearance issues in that area. Aside from rerouting the cable closer to the firewall before making the turn to the speedo, I don't know of another solution. Please do us a favor Jeff. If you still have the original cable, would you post the overall length for us. I still have to purchase the right length myself.
Jimmy B.
Just can't wait to get on the road again. 
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Gold MemberScotch Plains, NJ - USA
Joined: 1/11/2006
Posts: 241
Vette(s): 1981 Corvette Coupe, Stock, Black on Black,
4 Spd
I found it. Thought I threw it out.
JPD1stVette 2007-11-05 16:56:38
I ended tying mine to the big cable clamped to the firewall. It worked. But I'm not satisfied with that because they installed the cable without a tie wrap. (But that's me)
The cable is for a 1981 w/ 4 speed trans.
The speedo cable casing is 71 1/2" long (end of metal ferrel to end of metal ferrel and the internal cable appears to be 1/2" longer each end. See photo.
If you can take pictures upside down take one of the foot pedal under the dash just for the heck of it.
Lifetime MemberManteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold
1975 L48 4 speed
Sorry Jeff, I've been trying for the last hour. New camera, too complicated. got 5 pics, made the transfer to PC, viewed all, great pics, bad aim. Nothing worthwhile (except the fuse box). I'll try again tomorrow. Thanks for the measurement.
Jimmy B.
Just can't wait to get on the road again.
Click to see larger views!
I had the same issue with my '81 4 spd. Every time I would push the clutch in it would hit the cable. I figured it out eventually though. It's been awhile since I did the speedo cable.
So if you can wait a few days, I will go out to the garage and take a couple pics under the dash to show you how I routed the cable. My schedule is very hectic and the car is all bundled up for her winter slumber. Otherwise I would do it right away for you.
So PM me you email and I'll get the pics to you ASAP. I bought my speedo cable cheap through AutoZone believe it or not. Just make sure you give the inner cable a good coating of lightweight grease before installing. I wiped out the plastic gear in the tailshaft of the transmission quick by not lubing it.
TKO500 5 spd.
Borgeson Steering Box
Born 8/1981
Sequence #3975
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Lifetime Member #26
I am planning to do both the upper and lower cables myself.
They tell me the lower one should not be a problem and that is usually the one that fails. But I figured I would do them both while I have the time.
Do they need special grease because of the temperature swings, or can I use white lithium?
Should I pull the inner cable out and lube the entire length?
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Gold MemberScotch Plains, NJ - USA
Joined: 1/11/2006
Posts: 241
Vette(s): 1981 Corvette Coupe, Stock, Black on Black,
4 Spd
Dave:
I don't have cruise control like you, but I pulled the new cable out B4 installing and lightly applied vasoline to it.
JPD1stVette 2007-11-06 10:36:12
Remember that whatever grease you put in will somehow lift to the top.
So lube lightly is the key. I'm telling ya, it's a phenomenon ! 
in Forum: C3 Interior
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