Would appreciate any guidance/hints on removing and replacing speedometer from my 40. Can it be done without removing the whole gauge cluster? Any and all guidance would be appreciated. Thanks, Bob
I assume the 40 would be about the same as my 38 which isn't difficult. Pop out the dash light bulbs, unscrew the speedometer cable and remove two nuts. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong.
VCCA Member 43216 Save a life, adopt a senior shelter pet. 1938 HB Business Coupe 1953 210 Sedan
What Tiny describes above is exactly how I changed the speedometer in a 1946 truck. And I may be wrong but I believe the instrument cluster in 1940-46 trucks was essentially the same as the 1940 car. As long as you've got room to work under there, it's actually pretty easy. Just make sure you disconnect the battery so you don't accidentally touch a hot wire or terminal.
I'm trying to remember but... If it is the same as the trucks, I think after you take off the speedometer cable and pop out the high beam light socket, it will actually be 3 screws that come out to remove a roughly triangular piece the speedometer is mounted in. One at the top, 2 at the outside bottom corners. This piece then comes out and the speedometer is held into it with 2 screws on the back side of it. There should be a little cardboard tube between the two where the high beam light is, don't lose it if you don't have a replacement.
Many thanks to all for the advice....especially the bit about not forgetting to disconnect the battery. Very helpful to have a good sense of what's involved. Regards, Bob
here is a picture of a dash I'm working on now, I agree disconnect battery before starting to remove the speedometer. as noted there are three lights and speedometer drive to disconnect and should be 4 nuts to remove gauge.
Firecars, great under dash photo. Thanks very much. Sure looks much cleaner than mine. Also enjoyed the picture of your car. Hope you don't mind, will send you a PM with some questions about your car. Bob
