I have an automatic transmission, 2.8L V6. Today after installing 194 wedge LEDs on my dashboard cluster, I messed up my gauges. I was trying to remove the gauges from my dash so I could easily access the necessary bulbs to replace them with LEDs.

In the process, I easily removed the middle section containing the battery light, fuel light, and the water pump (I think?) light as well as the fuel gauge off to the right of the cluster. The only one that gave me a problem was the speedometer on the left. I for whatever reason couldn't just pull it off like the fuel gauge. I tried to turn the dial a bit to see if there was a bolt behind it holding the whole speedometer in as a unit. No dice. After fiddling with it I for whatever reason ended up spinning the needle in both directions several times.

I think as a result the spring right behind the needle and the dial was either roughed up and moved out of place or it's damaged all together. It can't be the wire in the back that's connected to the tranny that I've been hearing about because I didn't pull on the cluster what so ever. The odometer is working, and accurately too. Therefore I believe that removes the possibility of it being a sensor or a cable, correct?

I'm guessing the spring or something is damaged. Is there any way I can take my car to a professional and have them fix this for a reasonable price? I really can't be asked to get a new unit as a whole because my odometer reads 52k original miles, I wouldn't want to lose that some how.

The needle doesn't move at all. My fuel gauge as well is moving less than before, but now that I think about it, it fluctuated quite a bit while the vehicle was on and moving.

I know this was a really amateur and knucklehead mistake but it happened nonetheless. Any help is appreciated. Thanks guys!l

 

You probably ruined the return spring on the stem.Taking it to a pro wont be cheap.Either get a replacement speedo or try fixing it yourself.

 

Do you know how much we're talking approximately? I'm not worried about spending money for a professional to do it simply because I just don't understand how they work. Hell, I couldn't even take the thing out of the cockpit let alone repair it. I'm thinking of bringing it to a chevy dealership since they specialize in gm cars. I'm hoping its something simple and a quick fix.

 

you don't even want to go to a dealer.their "service techs" are younger than your car!! give scott speedometer a call .they can fix it for around $100. next time, try reading your factory service manual. you DO have one ,right???

 

Scott Speedometer? Never heard of it, although I'll look into it. I'm looking for any help I can get at a reasonable price. I don't have a service manual. Is that a bad thing? Wasn't aware people used 'em.

 

Dealer would sell you one rather, not that they any to sell.Just not what they do.Speedo needs to be calibrated to work properly.So find a good shop if you're willing to pay.Prices will vary.

 

Yeah I've decided not to go to a dealer. Apparently they charge an arm and a leg.