View Full Version : aftermarket speedo?


nervekiler
10-27-2003, 09:01:00 AM
hello, most of the gauges in my camaro do not work. i would like to replace them. everything will be pretty simple except for the speedometer.

does anyone have any experience in switching out the speedometer to an aftermarket one? what would i need to look for? which is better, mechanical or electronic? and where can i get one for a good price?

a while back i purchased a autometer 120mph speedo for my old camaro and tried to instal it but it wouldnt fit into the speedo cable. i dont want to but another one and have the same problem again.

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79 z28, drivable project
79 base model, caught on fire :(
'77 concours nova
http://Cardomain.com/id/nervekiller

archemedes
10-27-2003, 05:52:00 PM
there's a special adapter needed to use an aftermarket speedo, mechanical ones tend to cost less,electronic ones CAN be more accurate, but need calibrated

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Yahoo messenger ID archemedes74 feel free to add me
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70RATZ28
10-27-2003, 07:22:00 PM
Just get a mechanical autometer. They are like $80 or so and run w/ a cable just like stock. Pretty much a cinch to install. Just hook up the light to power and ground and run the speedo cable. No biggie. I run a mechanical phantom in my car. Oh and as for your cable problem just buy an aftermarket cable than will screw on to the speedo rather than push on and you will have no problems.

[This message has been edited by 70RATZ28 (edited October 27, 2003).]

nervekiler
10-28-2003, 08:28:00 AM
ok thanks guys. do you know where i can get one of those special cables? would they sell em on summit, or do you think i could go to my local napa, shucks, or autozone to get one?

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79 z28, drivable project
79 base model, caught on fire :(
'77 concours nova
http://Cardomain.com/id/nervekiller

wayner
10-28-2003, 09:31:00 AM
There is an adaptor kit available for adapting autometer and others to camaro speedo cables, it is cheaper then a new speedo cable and easier to install.
Summit sells them just ask for part number

VDO
200 203 - Cable adaptor kit - Chevrolet.

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70 Camaro Z/28 with 461cu.in. BBC & auto, 3.31 12 bolt posi.

70RATZ28
10-28-2003, 06:08:00 PM
I used a Lokar cable. If I had known that there was an adapter I wouldve used that. The Lokar cable housing is top notch but it is a universal cable so you have to cut it to length and crimp the end onto the cable. That DOES NOT work. The end falls right back off. I ended up having to use the stock inner cable in the Lokar housing. It works but hardly worth the $50 for the Lokar cable.