Harley Speedometer Cable Lubrication and VOES

Mike is moving right along with the servicing of our 1988 Heritage Softail. Next up is lubricating the Harley speedometer cable. Being that this is a service and not a replacement or repair, the cable will not be removed from the motorcycle. It will be disconnected and lubricated from the top in order for gravity to help the cable lube find its way down inside the Harley speedometer cable casing. The dash console will need to be removed first. Mike begins by removing the odometer reset knob with a small screwdriver. Next, the choke knob is loosened and removed.

*Only early Evolution models that still have stock Bendix carburetors will have a choke knob in this location. Otherwise, the dash console will only be retained by an acorn or nylock nut in this location.*

After the dash console retaining nut is removed, the dash can be lifted off of the dash plate & fuel tanks.

Next, Mike gives us an excellent tip: Secure a ty-wrap around the top of the Harley speedometer cable casing. This will keep the cable’s retaining nut from slipping downward once loosened. If the nut does slide down the cable, it can become lodged in the frame of the motorcycle where the Harley speedometer cable passes through. Making the cable nut difficult to retrieve. Mike removes a gas cap for easier access to the retaining nut with long needle nose pliers. He also protects the painted surface of the fuel tank.

Once the Harley speedometer cable has been released from the speedometer, Mike can begin feeding cable lube into the cable’s casing. With the dash console removed, it is important to inspect the condition of the fuel crossover hose and the ignition switch. At this time, it is a good idea to disconnect the battery ground cable and check the ignition switch connections. Make sure contacts are clean & secure. Also, if the 2 dash rubber trim pieces are loose, they can be nicely secured with a small amount of Loctite super glue gel.

Mike continues on to demonstrate the location of the VOES (Vacuum Operated Electric Switch). He explains its importance and how to properly test the switch. Mike wraps up with discussion of Petcock and fuel hose inspection.

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