View source for Speedometer Cable

The speedometer will sometimes become erratic at low speed or stop working (along with odometer and trip meter). This is usually a problem with the speedometer cable itself or occasionally the attachment on the back of the speedometer.

In addition, the speedometer cable must be removed from the gearbox housing to check and fill the transmission oil!

Despite beautifully clear drawings in the Lotus Service Manual (Section FF.3, Page 4) of the speedometer cable entry/refill point, you sometimes wonder if you’re looking at the same car! Access is not easy but can be made easier by moving the coolant header tank (no need to drain) to a better position, and possibly removing the air intake hose to the throttle body. The photograph of a removed engine and gearbox makes it clearer: The red arrow highlights the gearbox entry and the blue arrow shows the speedometer coupling.


[[Image:SpeedometerCableGearboxEntry.jpg |250px]]
[[Image:GearboxWithSpeedometerCable.jpg |210px]]

''.....................................Click on pictures for full size.....................................''


The speedometer gear, which must be removed, is located at the rear of the differential housing and is accessed from above. Tracing the speedometer cable down from the bulkhead helps locate it. A retaining plate needs to be removed by releasing a single screw before attempting removal. The speedometer gear normally puts up plenty of resistance to removal so be prepared for a fight but try not to use excessive force unless driven to it. The suggested level is midway between the 'ADD' and 'MAX' marks. After replacement of the gear and cable, the retaining plate should be tightened to 6 Nm (4.5lb.ft).


[[Category:HowTo]]
[[Category:Maintenance]]