Speedo / Milometer Dead

Hey guys,

I've just bought my '89 GTi Cabby and the speedo / milometer is completely dead. Reading around I guess it's either the cable, gearbox connection or the speedo clock itself, but what I really need to know is how to remove the clocks unit so I can get in and check the cable is attached? I've read horror stories on here about people removing it and various random things not working after so I'm really after a step by step guide as to how to do it properly. I'm new to MK1 ownership! Any suggestions as to what and where to look for the speedo cable etc at either end would also be much appreciated.

The MPG and MPH readings on the MFA are displaying –.-, I assume this is because the Speedo is not working?

Thanks guys, I'm desperate as my MOT is due in 2 weeks!  

Start with the easiest option first. Have a look to see if the speedo gear at the gearbox end is still attached.

If it is then move on to see if the cable is attached to the clocks. I think you can see if you lay upside down in the foot well and look up!

Finally if that is attached the it is time to remove the clocks and check the mechanism on the back.

If your speedometer is not working then look at the drive cable to the back of the unit, You just feel for the release tab. press it in and pull it free (Don't try and unscrew it like i did first time and couldn't understand what was happening) check the condition. Also check the worm drive that connects to the Engine end. If your displays are not working there is a voltage regulator that can cause all sorts of probs. also check for earthing probs. check this link, it's really for changing the clock faces but gives all sorts of info i.e. how to remove the clocks and the position of the regulator etc.
hope this helps.

4130 Products - Changing the color of the gauge cluster lights.

Thanks guys. I did hang upside down under the dash but being 6' tall found it quite difficult to actually make anything out, especially among the wires left after 20 years of various alarm systems! Wasn't quite sure what I was looking for. I'll have a go again later and also check the connection at the gear box.

The rest of the dials all work a treat, it's literally just the speedo and milometer.

Car shouldnt fail an mot if the speedo is not working and the mileage,

Not part of the test to test that area,

So you should be ok for a lil bit,

If the rev counter works you can eliminate an electrical problem , prob your speedo cable,

Its only a couple of screws and bits of trim to get the speedo head out,
If you remove the radio, you might be able to get your hand round the back to see if its connected still.

Grrr. The speedo cable is still connected at both ends, so I'm guessing it has snapped. Will remove the clocks at the weekend and see wossup. (whilst I'm also fitting my bulkhead repair plate and fixing a leaky roof lol)  

Pull the cable out of the gear box end and see if the gear is still on. They sometimes fall off into the gearbox. 2 nuts to undo the carefully pull it out. There should be a white plastic gear on the end.