MG-Cars.net

Welcome to our resource for MG Car Information.

Recommendations

Parts

MG parts spares and accessories are available for MG T Series (TA, MG TB, MG TC, MG TD, MG TF), Magnette, MGA, Twin cam, MGB, MGBGT, MGC, MGC GT, MG Midget, Sprite and other MG models from British car spares company LBCarCo.

MG MGB Technical - Speedometer Cable replacement

Would someone explain the easiest, yet correct method for removing an old and then installing a new speedometer cable on a 1971 mgb roadster? I am installing an OD size cable without putting the right angle drive back on the transmission. Thanks.
Curt

Curt, I'm not sure I know the correct way, but you need to have gradual bends when you get it installed. The hardest part is getting to the back of the speedometer. You may be able to reach it by removing the right heater control mechanism. If not removing the tachometer may help. I used some nylon ties to position my cable so it doesn't have tight bends.

Clifton
Clifton Gordon

Curt, I wouldn't leave out the angle drive if I were you. I had to replace the cable twice in quick succession before I realised it was missing on my car. The cables didn't like being squashed against the transmission tunnel. They're not cheap but I'd say you'll save money in the long run. I haven't had to change the cable since.

Mike
Mike Standring

Grease the cable well with Lithium grease but don't drown it senselessly. If you do use the angle drive, be careful not to strip the plastic threads when you attach it to the tranny. Also, be sure it is fastened tightly. I once had an angle drive come loose on a highway (not pleasant). As Clifton says, beware kinks in the cable.
Philip

Neither of my cars have the gearbox angle-drive (40k and 75k in my ownership) and for many years I thought it only applied to LHD cars and then only at the speedo end. As long as you get a long enough cable to have a gentle curve it shouldn't be a problem. Much more important to keep the drive at the speedo end as space (for a gentle curve) is restricted.
Paul Hunt 2

Thanks to all. Do I have to remove the speedometer itself to detach the cable, or will the cable come off with the speedometer still in the dash? I know it's pretty tight back there. Curt
Curt

If you can get your hand up the back then it should unscrew (think about the direction). But the alternative is in the same area with two much smaller thumb nuts to remove the speedo anyway. However refitting is easier with the speedo out.
Paul Hunt 2

I have the same problem with my cable but am unable to get my huge hands behind the speedo. Is it possible to disconnect the cable at the gear box and R & R it that way? I haven't tried it yet.

Jack
J.C. Weidner

I don't think so. As I recall there is a small flange washer driven onto the inner at the speedo end to stop the inner falling out if the lower end of the outer should become detached. Could be ripped out, I suppose, but you would leave the washer at least behind, and would have to force the new inner back through it, and may snap the inner anyway.
Paul Hunt 2

Paul:

Thanks. I guess I won't try that.

Jack
J.C. Weidner

This thread was discussed between 10/12/2005 and 17/12/2005

MG MGB Technical index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGB Technical BBS is active now.