Does anyone know the exact length of the speedometer cable for a 1959 Corvette with an original Powerglide transmission and an original 283/230 engine? After replacing my old speedo cable with a new one from Corvette Central, the new one at 68 inches in length is 8 inches too long and protrudes into the engine compartment back from the firewall hole. The old speedo cable (I'm not sure if it's original) measures 60 inches and it was a perfect fit. The tech at Corvette Center said it must be routed incorrectly. I followed the 1959 assembly manual instructions to the letter and every securing clip and necessary turn/bend is accounted for. Any help would be appreciated.
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Re: 1959 Powerglide Speedo Cable Length
Keith,
I replaced my '59 Powerglide speedo cable last year. I got it from Mary Jo,and I remember researching it quite a bit. She offered a spiral-steel cable, 68 inchs long. At the time I was convinced it was correct for the 59, bought it, and I'm still confident it's correct. After reading your post I dug the old cable out, and it's 68 inchs also. Both protruded from the firewall in a gentle arch, almost reaching the area of the engine oil dipstick. Old photo's show this as being original workmanship. Hope that helps. Tom -
Re: 1959 Powerglide Speedo Cable Length
Tom, thanks for taking the time to dig out your old speedo cable and sending me a response. If you have some time, I'd like get some feedback from you regarding your response. What was the basis of your research and what kind of research did you do to satisfy your curiosity regarding your speedo cable? What is the origin of the old photos you have that show the installation of this cable? Are they old GM factory photos of the engine compartment on the assembly line? I don't know about you but this 68" cable looks unsightly protruding into my engine compartment. Also, I'm confused as to why GM would design a 68" cable specially for the Powerglide when they already had a 60" cable for the 3 speed manual transmission and a 62" cable for the 4 speed manual transmission. Both of these cables would work for the Powerglide. By the way, I can't return the 68" cable to Corvette Central because I used a pair of long nose pliers and scruffed up the collar on the cable.Comment
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