Speedometer Problems - 1979 CJ5

[Trigger]

More speedo problems...my jeep just ate another speedometer and cable. It must be these crappy after market clusters. It worked for 700 miles, then started bouncing erratically. The needle started wobbling, and the chrome piece at the base of the needle fell off into the display. Of course once it fell apart, it twisted my cable all up. This sounds like a crappy speedo cluster to me, so I've asked for yet another replacement. Am I missing something when I install (lubed the cable with the right lubricant), or are these things just really that unreliable. I may have to cut my losses and order a used original, but sure was hoping for a new shiny one :-)

 

[mtnwhlr]

Welcome to the land of cheap crappy aftermarket parts. Try and find a good org.

 

[Torxhead]

I have not heard of issues with the aftermarket speedo clusters before. There should be a few oem clusters around, so good luck with finding one. If you search the net you will find a number of guys building their own dashboards with separate aftermarket and higher quality gauges that look quite interesting, so there is another option. Getting quality parts usually comes with a hefty pricetag and hopefully worth it.

 

[thiswontbetooexpensive]

Welcome to the land of cheap crappy aftermarket parts. Try and find a good org.

Such cheer and outpouring of affection (); but sadly the truth.

I haven't gotten to this point yet, but the others who have are sorely disappointed from the posts on this forum alone.

My cable had been assulted by a faulty exhaust system. Hopefully a new and lubricated one will get my spedo back going.

 

[Trigger]

Welcome to the land of cheap crappy aftermarket parts. Try and find a good org.

I know....I know.....I think you already told me that! I'm stubborn :-)

 

[Trigger]

I have not heard of issues with the aftermarket speedo clusters before. There should be a few oem clusters around, so good luck with finding one. If you search the net you will find a number of guys building their own dashboards with separate aftermarket and higher quality gauges that look quite interesting, so there is another option. Getting quality parts usually comes with a hefty pricetag and hopefully worth it.

I am actually pondering sinking some cash into this thing and replacing some rusted body parts.....If I end up pulling the tub, etc, I will replace w/better quality gauges in general (likely a electronic speedo vs. manual). If there was better quality aftermarket mechanical ones, I would prefer them. I like the original look, but I also like it to work!