1987 Nissan 300ZX Manual Transmission Speedo Cable

The 1987 Nissan 300ZX manual transmission speedometer cable is a critical component that connects the transmission to the speedometer gauge, providing accurate vehicle speed readings. This cable assembly consists of an inner drive cable and outer housing, designed specifically for the 300ZX's manual transmission system. Below are key sections for identification, installation, troubleshooting, specifications, and maintenance procedures.

1. Identification and Location 2. Installation Procedure 3. Specifications 4. Troubleshooting Common Issues 5. Maintenance and Care 6. Replacement Parts 7. Safety Precautions 8. Technical Diagrams 9. Warranty Information 10. Contact Information

Identification and Location

The speedometer cable for the 1987 Nissan 300ZX manual transmission is located between the transmission housing and the instrument cluster.

Component	Location Description
Transmission End	Connects to speedometer gear housing on manual transmission
Dashboard End	Connects to rear of speedometer gauge in instrument cluster
Cable Routing	Runs through firewall, along chassis, to transmission
Connection Type	Square drive ends with threaded retaining nuts
Cable Length	Approximately 72 inches total length

Installation Procedure

Proper installation ensures accurate speedometer operation and prevents cable damage.

Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety.
Remove instrument cluster bezel and access speedometer connection.
Unscrew retaining nut at speedometer gauge end.
Locate transmission connection and unscrew retaining nut.
Remove old cable assembly, noting routing path.
Install new cable following same routing path.
Connect transmission end first, then instrument cluster end.
Secure all retaining nuts and reinstall instrument cluster.
Reconnect battery and test speedometer operation.

WARNING! Do not kink or sharply bend cable during installation. Ensure proper routing to prevent premature wear.

Specifications

Part Number: 25060-21P00 (Nissan OEM)
Cable Type: Mechanical drive cable
Drive End Size: Square drive, 0.125" (3.175mm)
Length: 72 inches (183 cm)
Housing Material: Steel reinforced rubber
Inner Cable: Steel wire, pre-lubricated
Compatibility: 1987 Nissan 300ZX manual transmission only
Thread Size: M18x1.5 at connection points

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common problems and solutions for speedometer cable operation.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Speedometer not working	Broken inner cable	Replace entire cable assembly
Speedometer jumping	Dry or binding cable	Lubricate or replace cable
Noise from dashboard	Worn cable housing	Inspect and replace if damaged
Inaccurate reading	Damaged drive gear	Check transmission gear
Cable comes loose	Loose retaining nuts	Tighten connection points

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance extends cable life and ensures accurate operation.

Inspect cable routing every 12 months for kinks or damage.
Lubricate inner cable with speedometer cable lubricant annually.
Check retaining nuts for tightness during routine maintenance.
Clean connection points to prevent corrosion.
Verify smooth operation by checking for binding or resistance.

CAUTION! Use only speedometer cable specific lubricant. Petroleum-based lubricants can damage cable housing.

Replacement Parts

Genuine and compatible replacement components.

Part Description	Part Number	Notes
OEM Speedometer Cable	25060-21P00	Genuine Nissan part
Retaining Nuts	01554-00631	M18x1.5 thread
Cable Lubricant	999MP-AS1000	Nissan recommended
Speedometer Gear	32703-21P00	Transmission side gear
Gasket	32736-01G00	Transmission housing gasket

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures during installation and maintenance.

Always disconnect battery before working on instrument cluster
Wear safety glasses when working under dashboard
Use proper tools to avoid damaging connection points
Ensure vehicle is securely supported if working underneath
Test speedometer operation before driving vehicle

WARNING! Never force cable connections. Cross-threading can damage transmission housing.

Technical Diagrams

Reference diagrams for proper installation and identification.

Speedometer cable routing diagram - shows proper path through firewall
Transmission connection diagram - illustrates gear housing connection
Instrument cluster diagram - shows speedometer gauge connection
Retaining nut torque specification - 12-15 ft-lbs
Cable bend radius minimum - 4 inches (10 cm)

Warranty Information

Nissan OEM parts carry 12-month/unlimited mileage warranty. Aftermarket parts warranty varies by manufacturer. Keep original receipt for warranty claims.

Contact Information

For technical support and genuine parts:

Nissan Customer Service: 1-800-647-7261
Nissan Parts Department: Contact local dealership
Online Resources: www.nissanusa.com
Technical Support: Available through certified Nissan technicians

Note: Always verify part compatibility with your specific 1987 300ZX VIN number.