1942 Dodge 1/2 ton "Job Rated" pickup speedometer repair

[Tubeviper]

As mentioned in another thread, when bought my 1942 Dodge 1/2 ton "Job Rated" pickup, the odometer wasn't working. But lately as I drove to a show, I had a sound like a chicken fight under the dash and then the disc containng the needle fell off. Now I have no speedometer or odometer. Which brings me to my question:

 

Would it be cheaper to repair or replace a speedometer in such condition? If someone has one laying around and would cut me a good deal, that would be GREAT! Otherwise, does anyone know of one being available? And barring that, does anyone know who fixes them at a reasonable cost?

 

Mine is pictured below but I have heard through the grapevine that a '42 speedometer supposedly have a long needle and not a disc with a short needle. Beats me, anyone know for sure?

 

Thanks!

 

 

 

[Young Ed]

You can buy a new plastic center for about $8. That would probably get the speedometer part going. The odometer being stopped could mean you need some parts.

[Brent B3B]

Tubeviper, if that doesn't work, PM b1b Keven, he might be able to suggest something. he has rebuilt three sets for my B3's

[Plymouthy Adams]

for the record..I have only heard good about Keven's service on gauges..it is not this that is in question..it is the fairness to all members who have been cautioned in the past for posting ads on open forum. 

[B1B Keven]

Tubeviper, if that doesn't work, PM b1b Keven, he might be able to suggest something. he has rebuilt three sets for my B3's

 

Thanks Brent !!! 

[Tubeviper]

Here is a closeup of my speedometer. Is it correct for my '42 Dodge 1/2 ton pickup?

 

 

Thanks!

[Young Ed]

Yes with one exception. The outside ring should be shiny unless you have a black out model. Looks as if someone painted over the chrome plating.

[Tubeviper]

Now for the speedometer cable, it is proper for it to go through the firewall at the air cleaner height cab entry point? The reason I ask is that there is an entry point much lower, where the firewall meets the floorpan on the passenger side,  that I would think might be easier and more direct for the speedometer cable.

 

Thanks!

[Desotodav]

Your truck is a earlier model than mine, but I can tell you that the later model trucks had the speedo cable come through the firewall where the floor panel meets the bottom edge firewall panel & towards the centre of the cab.

Best not to have any sharp bends in that cable!

[Young Ed]

It should come out of the center hole in the firewall clamp. Should be the only one that is slightly larger. Then it arcs down the pass firewall under the truck to the trans.