Topic: Replace Speedo and Tach cable - 500 - [Update: BROKE TACH CAP HOUSING]

[Chachi]

I am replacing my speedometer and tachometer cables on my 72 500 with new OEM Honda cables. I know how to disconnect them from the gauges, but I wanted to make sure the lower connections are just as straight forward. I see one screw holding the speedo by the front wheel and one screw (head facing up toward bottom of tank) holding the tach. Just loosen these two screws?

[RFogelsong]

Yup, they're the crappy Honda type that strip easily so get your impact ready.  If all else fails, cut a slot with a dremel tool or similar to get a flat head in there. 

[Chachi]

No problem with speedo screw. However, had a little issue with the tach. What are my options here? Order a new tach cap? JB weld? If I order new, any interim plug options so I can run bike until part comes in?

[Tugboat]

Ooooh, that's not good yo. That part is unavailable. Good luck finding one!

[Chachi]

Scratch ordering a part - I thought they were still available. So where does this leave me? JB? Search for one? Any other good plug options if JB doesn't work or I can't readily find a replacement?

[Magilla]

Everything is available if you have patients and take your time looking for it.

[dave500]

you can use one of those plastic plugs they put in the end of tubular chair legs if you want to keep riding.

[Chachi]

I just tried a 5/8" metal hole plug. It fit nice and snug, but it did not keep fluid from seeping out.

[Chachi]

Dave - a plastic plug won't melt? What type of chair leg plug are you talking about? I was thinking about a rubber stopper as an interim plug too, but I don't want anything harmful melting in there.

[mickwinf]

David Silvers do a repro tach housing.

[Dimitri13]

I have one I won't be using anymore. Send me a PM.

[Chachi]

Can't find the David Silver Spares repro. Got a link?

There seem to be a few options for plugs out there... XR200 rubber plug, CycleX, Joker Machine, etc. But do they only fit/plug the hole from the tach cable or do they plug the whole opening with the complete tach mounting assembly gone?

[dave500]

the plastic wont melt,a rubber test tube bung will work.

[mickwinf]

http://www.davidsilverspares.co.uk/CB500K0-FOUR-1971/part_176181/  is the part you need

[Chachi]

I wish I hadn't seen the DSS link - that's steep to say the least. Thanks for sending though. I have a temporary plug that seems to work. I used a metal plug like in the pic above, but with longer 'feet' and I added an O ring. It seems to have enough tension to allow the O ring to prevent leaks. I've only been able to test in the driveway. If it still leaks when riding, I'll probably do a rubber stopper until I can properly replace the broken housing. Also, I'm not sure if it's the 5/8" plug or not (in case someone is using this in the future for the same issue). It's just a hardware store chair leg plug.

[bryanj]

You may think that price is expensive but would you like to cast out and machine a small run of that part! Plus finance the stock inventory till they sell

[Chachi]

bryanj-

I get that. It's nothing against DSS... I just had sticker shock.