Replacing W124 speedo cable. - easy?

[SilverSaloon]

I need to re-solder the back of the instrument cluster so was wondering since i've got the cluster out, is it simple enough to replace the speedo cable?

my speedo is shakey up to about 30mph and i've read a new cable fixes this. Common 124 problem apparenty and both my 124s do it.

A quick look at the haynes manual suggests i just unbolt it from the bottom of the car (next to the gearbox) and then tie some string to the end and pull it through? then use the string to pull the new cable back into place?

is it as easy as this?

anyone know how much the cable is?

any potential problems due to length of cable etc?

does just a new cable fix it, or is there additional parts that i'll need?

could i possibly grease/fix my existing cable?

thanks in advance!!

Derek

 

[Ade B]

I need to re-solder the back of the instrument cluster so was wondering since i've got the cluster out, is it simple enough to replace the speedo cable?

my speedo is shakey up to about 30mph and i've read a new cable fixes this. Common 124 problem apparenty and both my 124s do it.

A quick look at the haynes manual suggests i just unbolt it from the bottom of the car (next to the gearbox) and then tie some string to the end and pull it through? then use the string to pull the new cable back into place?

is it as easy as this?

anyone know how much the cable is?

any potential problems due to length of cable etc?

does just a new cable fix it, or is there additional parts that i'll need?

could i possibly grease/fix my existing cable?

thanks in advance!!

Derek

I've the same issue - be interested to see if its an easy fix.

Ade

 

[230K]

Hi

I remember reading somewhere where it said not to grease the cable. Cant see or remember where it was though. Hopefully someone will prove or disprove this.

230k

 

[SilverSaloon]

from a search on other Merc forums, it appears there is a divide on whether to lube a cable or not. The correct cable lube must also be used to avoid it getting clogged and then sticking even worse. Many also say its interference that causes the wobble. Most say that its because the cable is nicked and fraying inside and the cable is winding up on itself instead of turning.