Speedometer Drive Question

[billkrz]

My 1968 Dart GTs was missing a speedometer cable so I put in a new one. The speedometer and odometer would not work. So, I unplugged the cable from the speedometer and drove. The cable does not turn. Obviously, the problem is at the transmission end. Any suggestions on where to start?
Thanks,
Bill

 

[dusterdon]

take the adaptor off at the trans and see if there's a speedo gear in there.

 

[billkrz]

Thanks. Yes, there was a gear there. Turns out that the cable was not inserted properly into the gear. That is now correct.
New problem: the speedometer needle swings wildly. Sometimes, it moves at idle.
From what I know of this car, the speedo has not been connected for 20+ years. I did use a new Chrysler cable and yes, it is latched securely via the clip to the speedometer head.
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Bill
Thanks,Bill

 

[jefflock]

Bill, Did you lube the inner cable before you installed it?

 

[billkrz]

No, I did not lube it. Since it was a brand new Chrysler part, I assumed it would be pre-lubed from the factory. Is that not the case? If so, how do you lube it and what do you lube it with?
Thanks,
Bill