speedo cable

[NAVYCAT]

is there a difference between a 86 speedo cable and a 88 speedo cable? when I change to a 88 dash assembly on my 86 capri the miles counter is working fine but the needle will go crazy sometimes. then some times when I drive it will stop and wont move until I bang on the dash. I take it apart and the needle is not lodging on anything but it just stops. I thought the 88 cable was to long so I ground down one end and seemed to help alittle but still will jamb

[Walking-Tall]

According to listings for '88 and '86 at RockAuto, no diff...
Four choices, ATP/Pioneer brands, all same part numbers...
72" for with cruise control, 76" without cruise control...
You mighta "ground" 'er a bit too much... disengaging from the speedo would explain a "crazy" needle and/or it stopping...
Luckily they're not too expensive.

[KevinK]

Check your cable routing for sharp bends.

[Broncojunkie]

There are a few threads on here about speedo problems. Most of the time, issues like yours can be fixed by cleaning and greasing the connection at the gauge-end of the cable. I've had this problem before and I'm currently experiencing it on my 79. Unfortunately, it's pretty far down on the list of crap I haven't got around to.