How to lubricate the inner speedometer cable?

NEIL2002CIVIC

MEMBER
1963 CHEVROLET NOVA
3.2L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
113,000 MILES

Hi, I have owned my car for 42 years. I need to know how to lubricate the cable once removed from the outer casing. I have a 1/2 oz tube of graphite. How do I make 1/2 oz of oil work on 70 inches of cable? I had recent back surgery and really trying not to remove the outer casing also. I know it's messy to work with. I removed the inner cable at the head. It's not shiny and didn't bind when removed. Just dry (needle jumping). Can I put it in a zip lock bag then feed it in? I have seen graphite spray also. Is that the same? My last thought is. Can I use a fine layer of synthetic wheel bearing grease? I know not to grease within 6 inches from the speedometer head. I have always replaced the cable as one piece. 40 years working on cars I have never done this. The new parts are such garbage! Thanks, any help/advice is appreciated. Have a great day and stay healthy. Neil

5 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Couple questions just to be sure we are on the same page. You are looking to lubricate the cable as it goes into the speedometer unit?

If that is the case, then I would suggest using a graphite lubricant that you can get at any parts store. I pictured a common one below.

There are many products out there that are for speedometer lubrication, but I use graphite on the 1956 Mark II that my father-in-law owns.

Once you remove the cluster, you unscrew the cable and lubricate the end of the tip. Make sure you clean it first. Then you do not need much of this. Maybe the size of a pea on the cable.

His speedometer clicks and this helps eliminate it.

Let me know if you have questions about this. Thanks

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Friday, January 21st, 2022 AT 5:27 PM

NEIL2002CIVIC

MEMBER
111 POSTS

Yes, I bought the AGS Kable-lube. My speedometer head itself is not the problem. The problem is with the inner cable and outer casing. AKA, the speedometer cable. It's dry and needs lube. I took cable off the speedometer and removed the inner cable. It's 70 inches long. How does 1/2 oz of graphite oil lube that much? What is the best way to do it? I had recent back surgery and this was easier then removing/replacing the whole assembly I hope that explains my dilemma. That is why I asked about putting the cable and oil in a plastic bag 1st before feeding it back into the outer casing. Thanks

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Friday, January 21st, 2022 AT 7:03 PM

KASEKENNY

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18,907 POSTS

Oh. I see. You took the cable itself apart. Then yes, I would do the plastic bag method and then put it back in the out "casing."

Never did it that way so I understand what you are saying, and I can't think of another way that would be better.

Maybe using rubber gloves and just put a little in your palm and start running the cable through your hand? The rubber glove will keep it from drying out too quickly like your hand would, but the plastic bag is going to do the same thing.

I would continue with what you were doing and see how it works out.

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Saturday, January 22nd, 2022 AT 3:03 PM

NEIL2002CIVIC

MEMBER
111 POSTS

0 degrees this morning in NY. When I thaw out, I'll do it. Lol I found a plastic drop cloth also to protect the interior. Thanks!

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Saturday, January 22nd, 2022 AT 4:27 PM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Oh wow. I don't blame you. Things just don't work right when it is that cold so I would wait as well.

We will be here when you get back to us. Thanks for the update.