Broken speedometer needles:
I have encountered problems on three gauges - one tach and two speedometers on my 80 CBX. Speedometer and Tach cables were replaced with new ones from Honda, but even after that, my "new" ebay speedometer did the same thing in less than 400 miles. I believe the problem is that the internals of the gauges get dry or worn (or both). Although it is sometimes hard to detect over the engine and wind noise, there is a squealing sound and erratic needle movement that precedes the needle failure. I think that the frequency of the vibration that accompanies the sound causes the needles to break. They always break about the same place.
I now have a speedometer apart and have cleaned the gears and bushings as best I can with WD40. Then dried them off and lubed with DuPont Teflon dry wax lubricant from Lowes.
Now I am turning my attention to repair or replacement of the needle. I am not that interested in a new OEM needle as they are apparently prone to failure.
Some things I have considered to repair my needle:
1. Super Glue it back together and then glue a small length of metal from a paper clip or other brace below as a brace to support the joint
2. Super Glue it back together and then use some epoxy below the joint to give it extra strength. The bottom of the needle is like an inverted V which is probably part of the problem...
3. Pull the old needle off the center piece and glue something else in its place and paint it. Some options follow along with pictures of some of the options:
- match stem
- paper clip or nail cut to proper length
- short length of wide thin metal like a straightened out wall picture hanger
- Cut off nail - already has a point on the end
I welcome other suggestions and ideas.
Thanks,
Kirk Pierce
