Strange Noise from DASH!?!?

[4x4runner91]

I just got my 1991 4Runner 4x4 back from AAMCO trannys last week and it is driving absolutely fine, except for the ANNOYING noise that comes from somewhere in the dash. It sounds like a plastic gear spinning really fast and i've noticed it goes with the speed of the tires/tranny...not rpms though. It only does it early in the morning when I go to work and later in the day if I drive it, no noise. I've been told it could be something with the speedometer cable...is that a possibility? Do I need to take it back to AAMCO to see if they messed something up? Thanks

 

[bigdaddygreen]

your noise

this would be your spedo cable ........ giveit some lube or just ignore till it breaks : )

 

[fourwd1]

You could try disconnecting the speedo cable to see if it's the source. It connects at the t-case, pass side towards the rear.

 

[Griffin1340]

I have a similar problem with my '91. Turned out to be the speedo cable, it is a loud 'whirring' noise that gets louder with MPH. Usually only when it's cold out and if truck has been sitting a while.
I removed the instrument cluster and put some lithium spray grease down the speedo shaft and all is good, except when it's really cold...like -20f.

 

[4runninAZ]

my runner did the same thing took the speedo cable off behind the gauge cluster and sprayed some white lithium grease in it works fine now

 

[raers]

I just finished lubricating the speedo cable on my 91 4x4 22RE w 200,000mi. It had gotten to the point where it was jumpy +- 5mph and squeeking/whirring at any speed.

First I disconnected the cable from the transfer case and spun it a few times. I could feel the 'bumps' as it rotated. Then I dismantled the dash finish panel to gain access to the (SR5) gauge cluster. Everything is electronic except for the speedo, which disconnects with a clip. After removing the gauges I had my fiance pour bicycle chain wax down the cable as I spun the cable from beneath the car with a cordless drill. We added about 2oz. or more of lube before it smoothed out and a tiny bit of lube worked its way all the way down the cable. This took about 10 minutes of spinning/adding lube. (I found it helps to gently push the cable in and out of the sheath as you spin it to help the lube work it's way down.) After that, I dabbed some synth. grease on both ends of the cable where they attach to their respective units and reinstalled the dash. Took it for a few mile spin, and it's absolutely fixed. The needle runs super smooth and not a peep from the dash.

Apart from dismantling the dash (which really just takes patience), this is a really easy DIY task.