I just noticed that the odometer on my 84 Vanden Plas is no longer working. The speedometer continues to work properly. I would not normally think this is a big deal except that my vehicle has less than 38000 original miles on it. So - is this something that is reasonably "fixable" and if so suggestions on how to go about diagnosing the problem and correcting it would sincerely be appreciated. Thank you in advance for your recommendations.

 

A couple of ideas. Reset it a couple of times, it may just be hung up in neutral between cogs. or, a somewhat gentle thump on the instrument may jar a stuck gear loose snd enable it to mesh and start counting.

Or, open it up and look for congealed lube, literaly gumming up the works.

And, lastly, it may have a mechanical issue, stripped gears or the like.

Fixable, mebbe to some, not so much to others. A replacement unit may be the answer.

David Boger has them in NOS or good used.

Carl

 

Funny, the exact same thing happened to me a few months ago on my 84VDP with only 10,000 original KM, and like you, I wanted to ensure that no-one thought I was playing with it. Not sure how to link to my question in the forum but the title was "84VDP, ODO/Trip just stopped, speedo fine" Anyways, couple things, there is some discussion about a transducer on the tranny but not likely the problem as your Speedo is working like mine. I ended up taking out the speedo, loosening it/shaking it and it started working again! Only took about 30 min and never done it before. It may or may not work for you but in any case, likely the starting point is to pull it out. Note Doug told me that in 84, the units were changing to all electronic (as mine), so yours may or may not align with the Haynes removal instructions, but there is enough to get it done. It either has 2 manual cables or electrical wires and you will not know until you pull it. Hopefully you are as lucky as I was.

 

Well - I tried tapping on the Speedometer frame with a rubber mallet - guess what - the Odometer started working again and is (so far) continuing to work - must have been a mis-alligned or gummed up cog - whatever - it is working now. Thanks for all of the suggestions.

 

percussion maintenance can do wonders at times!!