I'm looking for a replacement speedometer cable with a steel sheath. So far every thing I've found has a plastic sheath and as far away from the exhaust pipe as I can get it just isn't enough and it always fails. Anyone know where I can get a new cable that is close to original? I'm not totally opposed to something from the junkyard, but I'm not as much a fan of junkyard parts as I used to be.

 

I was able to buy a new one from Toyota a couple of months ago. That’s your best option.

 

Were you looking for a speedometer cable for a specific vehicle?

 

Do you have non-factory exhaust routing?

This is the first I have heard of the exhaust causing a speedometer to fail.

 

93 4Runner, 3vze. The replacement cables that I've found have just a basic ABS black plastic sheath. Super cheap and ordinarily reliable I suppose. The first one I did was too close to the exhaust and I didn't even think of it and it torched it within minutes. I've put in two since then and I route them as far from the exhaust as I can, but it still has to cross over to that side at some point and that's where it fails. I had to replace it because the original sheath was damaged during the engine swap.

ThanX for the dealership suggestion. I was hoping to get it aftermarket, but it is what it is.

 

Here is where I got mine (1991 model pickup 3vze). It costs $95, but it is smooth as butter and you'll never have to mess with it again. If you use that website, note it's buried in the etertainment-audio-electronics portion of the parts tree.

https://parts.lakelandtoyota.com/s/T...ectronics.html

 

No matter what the outer layer is, there is still a plastic liner which keeps lube in the cable and reduces noise. That will melt even if the outer layer is metal. OEM cables are going to be the best quality and longest lasting option you can buy. What you'll probably need if you're running a non-stock engine and exhaust setup is to find an insulating wrap. Check Summit Racing or Jegs and look for heat wrap or insulating sheath. It comes in many varieties and sizes. Slides over cables and hoses and protects them from heat.

 

I disconnected my speedo cable a few weeks ago when cold weather caused it to howl. Ive replaced a few speedo cables over the years with factory cables out of parts trucks. I'll connect it in March if it warms up. The cable is a weak link in the truck IMO....yesterday -37C and my thermostat failed,,it was quite noticeable.

 

WOW!
BRRRRRRrrrr! Too cold for me. Darn that global warming!
Enjoy!
Pat☺