Erratic speedo up to about 30mph

[46woodie]

Speedo on my 46 is pretty erratic up to about 30-40mph. The cable gos through a gear changer for my Columbia then to my speedo. Any suggestions why I cant get steady reading while driving?thanks

[cas3]

Either the cable is dry, needs grease, or its not routed correctly, needs smoother less kinky corners

[46woodie]

Thanks,will lube tomorrow

[glennpm]

Disassemble the Columbia supplied Stewart Warner speedometer "transmission" while you're at it.

[Royal Ryser]

cas3, what do you lubricate the cable with?

[cas3]

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You can buy actual speedo grease intended for this, but I just use a lithium based grease. Not the white stuff, it tends to dry up and get hard over time.

[Mart]

I oiled a speedo cable once, and it did not help. I then greased it and it did help. I think the grease acts as a damper of sorts and damps down the fast/slow action.
The fast/slow action is normally generated at a kink in the cable so check the routing. Also check it is not close to the exhaust at any point.
Mart.

[4dFord/SC]

Just a tip. When you disconnect the cable from the speedometer, immediately cover the end with a plastic baggy or some such. Those things tend to have a mind of their own and can leave skid marks on your kick panel and/or upholstery when you're pulling them out. No need to ask how I know.