Speedometer

[EvilBunny]

My speedometer doesn't move but all the other functions work still the rpms and etc all work fine just the speedometer any tips on what to check first to fix it? It was a bit strange driving it home for 30miles without one.

[prerunner1982]

Not sure if that vintage XJ was using mechanical or electrical speedo. I would start at the transmission/transfer case and check everything. If it uses a mechanical speedometer cable you can disconnect the end at the trans/tcase and use a drill to spin the cable and see if your speedo reacts. If not you may have a broke cable. If it's electrical I would start by making sure all connectors are clean and have a good contact.

[4.3LXJ]

The first thing to look for is if the speedo cable is hooked up to the transfer case. It is all mechanical. If it is connected, you will see it there on the tail housing, disconnect it and spin the cable in both directions with your fingers. If all that is working, someone should be able to see the speedo register a little speed. If not, you probably have a broken cable. Used to be common. You can replace the cable or get another at a wrecking yard cheap

[EvilBunny]

The first thing to look for is if the speedo cable is hooked up to the transfer case. It is all mechanical. If it is connected, you will see it there on the tail housing, disconnect it and spin the cable in both directions with your fingers. If all that is working, someone should be able to see the speedo register a little speed. If not, you
probably have a broken cable. Used to be common. You can replace the cable or get another at a wrecking yard cheap

So, if it's mechanical I don't need the car on right?

[bluedragon436]

Yes if it's mechanical the XJ won't need to be on to see it register speed when you spin the other end by hand... IIRC the XJ's didn't go to an electronic speedo until 91 along with the HO motors, and getting away from that stupid Renix controller, but I could be wrong...

[EvilBunny]

https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t35.0-12/13517976_1082718305131940_1252930675_o.jpg?oh=1829 fc044071ce65a98b954671b4ff84&oe=576A3D7A Found the issue.

[4.3LXJ]

Is that a broken speedo cable I am looking at?

[bluedragon436]

Looks like a few failures on that cable... Looks like the outside insulation is shot on that one section, which probably doesn't help any part of it not working... and then the end of it, looks like it was cut or pulled apart.. so I'd certainly think that would be your issue for sure!!

[EvilBunny]

Is that a broken speedo cable I am looking at?

Yup

[bluedragon436]

Looks like you can pick up a brand new one from RockAuto for under $20.. so not too bad to repair and get you all up and working correctly!!!

[4.3LXJ]

Sounds like you found what is wrong Kenny

[EvilBunny]

Sounds like you found what is wrong Kenny
What do you mean?

[4.3LXJ]

If that broken cable I see is your speedo cable, then it needs to be replaced

[EvilBunny]

If that broken cable I see is your speedo cable, then it needs to be replaced
Ah, Now that I look back I seem to have read it wrong sorry about that.