noise from front end

[norman jones]

I have a series 1 FHC and it has developed a noise from the front right corner when on the move. It is like something is catching at start off then as speed builds up it becomes constant. Breaking does not stop it.
I have removed the wheels and cannot replicate it by rotating the wheel the bearings seem ok and plenty of life left in the pads. It does not seem to appear when in reverse.
I am beginning to think it may be the speedo cable - it apears to be an inbord noise.
Is this possible if so how easy is it to disconect the speedo cable from the dash?

Any one had similar problems?

[christopher storey]

Norman : indeed I have , and it was a speedo problem . First thing I would try is making sure your trip counter plunger is fully out, as this can produce a grating noise if it is slightly depressed . To get at the cable, the easiest way is to remove the underdash trim piece below the speedo ( usually secured with 2 screws, and it may be alloy covered in vinyl, or millboard. You should then be able to reach the speedo cable attachment and unscrew it. Don't worry if in doing so you dislodge the warning light bulbs from their holders, they are easy enough to put back in . Removal of the entire instrument is more awkward : I usually try and undcrew the right hand knurled nut first , which then usually permits the instrument to be rotated so as to give you access to the knurled nut on the other side . Getting it back is even more awkward.......

[norman jones]

Christpher: many thanks for speedy response. I will try this today. The speedo is "lazy" it over-reads by about 20% and is often showing 30 MPH for a few seconds even when at standstill. Someone mentioned lubricating the cable, how would this be done?

If it is speedo cable will leave for now as I intend to be at silverstone next weekend.

I assume to stop the cable rotating and proving this is the culprit I would need to disconect from gearbox.

Thanks again for rersponse.

[christopher storey]

Norman : if you disconnect the cable at the speedo end, you should be able to pull the cable inner out from the speedo end. It may need a gentle tug with a pair of pliers - don't apply much force - and you should have a large cloth available as the cable is usually filthy and is about 5 feet long

To lubricate I should first clean the cable with a lint-free cloth, and if gummy use a solvent . Then take a knob of grease between two fingers and roll the cable through them lubricating only the bottom two-thirds, as there is a tendency for capillary action to cause the grease to migrate up the cable . In any event you should wipe off any excess grease before feeding the inner cable back through the outer

[norman jones]

Christopher: Thanks for both replys. I am now certain the noise is from the dash. Removing it now may mean driving down to silverstone from N Wales with dashbord on my lap, so not an option!

Will tackle this next week.

Thanks again.