Speedometer needle shaking? Check driveshaft

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skylines225

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After months of having the speedometer needle violently shake and bounce during highway speeds, I added grease to the driveshaft fitting, and the needle finally stopped shaking. It’s been months and it’s now a smoother ride and the needle has been steady ever since.

I know the cable requires lube every so often, and I understand these are two separate parts, but if you continue to have this problem, give it a try. I thought I’d pass this along, it worked for me!
 
If your u joint was dry enough to cause that problem, it's likely that it's incapable of being un fucked and should probably be replaced
 
If your u joint was dry enough to cause that problem, it's likely that it's incapable of being un fucked and should probably be replaced
Yes good point. Maintaining parts that are easily forgotten goes a long way. Even with low miles, it could have been dry from not driving the vehicle for a long period of time. Thanks for the tip.
 
Have never heard of that repair. In my experience the problem has always been the speedo cable. Here is the old school way of checking the condition of the cable. Pull it from the car from the speedo end. It will have a ferule (a "stop") at the speedo end. Wipe with a rag, cleaning off any grease and dirt. Each end of cable has a square crimp in it to allow it to be "driven". Place trans end in a vise. Grab speedo end and note neutral, relaxed position. Grab tightly and try to twist cable to the left and right. If you are able to twist cable in either direction a 1/4 rotation or more, the cable is bad. Replace it. In the old days we used to make our own from bulk cable, today you will need to find a speedo shop. If the outer cable is not damaged it can be reused. Lube the cable and install. Hope this helps.
 
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