Speedometer Needle

[Rick Daniels]

The speedometer needle has fallen off its drive shaft.  The odometer still works but I must rely on my tachometer and GPS for speed.  I have been told if the odometer still works the speedometer would work if the needle was attached. Any one know how or where to remedy this?  I am in Montana

[Bill Lampkin]

Rick, You might search for a local speedometer shop;g yes, they used to be common, along with starter motor repair shops, radio shops and conestoga wagon wheel repair shops. Might still be worth a look.

[Steve Huber Co-Admin]

Rick,
If you can remove the speedometer they are pretty easy to disassemble and repair. You may also be able to drop the front bezel and glass by removing a few nuts or screws from the rear of the dash. Then you'll have access to the needle and cap, if there is one.
Steve

[Rick Daniels]

Bill, No local speedometer shop.  I too recall the day when every town had one or more speedometer repair shops.  I recall taking the speedometer out of my 1948 Plymouth, which was then 10 years old,  and having it repaired.  Everything was mechanical then.  When the speedometer cable would loose its lubrication it would scream at you.  Low tone for slow speed and high pitch for fast speeds. 

Steve, I am going to try your suggestion.  I don't see a "cap" in there that would hold the needle on the drive shaft but these old eyes might see it once I get the lens off.

Thanks for the help

[Larry Fritz]

Rick:  I have the identical problem in my 98 Patriot 37'.  I would like to fix it but so far no time so like you I use the GPS.

I was told a few years ago that this particular unit was not repairable. When I get time, I will decide if it is or isn't.  I will get mine open some how even if I have to use a hack say after it is out.  The fix is simple if you can get inside of it. Just a little of the right kind of glue!

Please let me know or post if and when you find out how to do it. Thanks.

Larry Fritz

[Mike Shumack]

I'm not sure about yours, but my dash gauges (2005) are made by Faria Beede. They have a repair service.
If your gauges are the same, you can remove the speedo and sent it in for repair.  https://fariabeede.com/forms/?form=new#rep_new

[Steve Huber Co-Admin]

Rick,
VDO gauges were common in the older Beavers
Steve