I recently purchased a 1995 Nissan XE King Cab 4x4. The speedometer and the odometer aren't working. When the ignition is first turned on sometimes the needle will remain at 0. Other times it will jump to 100 and remain there regardless if the vehicle is moving or not. Other times the speedometer needle will indicate various speeds irrespective to the actual ground speed.
On the counsel of mechanically inclined friends that insisted the speed sensor (a permanent magnet AC Generator) was at fault, I replaced it (to the tune of $114), but the symptoms remained the same. I tested the old sensor, and it appeared to be ok. With a variable speed drill motor I operated the sensor from zero to about 500 RPM. At the slowest speed the drill would operate the voltage was just under 1 volt. At 500 RPM the voltage was near
10 volts (not RMS). The frequency varied from 5 to 58 cps.I managed to have a peek at a wiring diagram that indicated two wires from the sensor to the speedometer. There were also wires to the ECU, and the odometer. The check engine light is on with the code indicating a speed sensor circuit problem.
I haven't had the dash apart yet, but I suspect I wont be able to refrain for long. Is the speedometer/odometer serviceable, or is it just replaced? If the speedometer/odometer has to be replaced how do you set the mileage to what the old unit registered so the actual mileage on the truck will be indicated?
I would appreciate input from others that have experienced speedometer anomalies such as I am currently.
I suppose I could opt for having the dealer repair my vehicle, but I view it as an opportunity to learn something, grow closer to my new toy, and would rather do the repair myself. I am very mechanically inclined, and have tons of tools. If I could just obtain a factory service manual, or borrow one to copy, it would boost my confidence to tackle various repairs.
Thanks in advance for any time or assistance provided.
Louis--
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