Classic/Antique Car Repair: spedometer cable, ford f 100, inch cable


Question
Classic/Antique Car Repair: spedometer cable, ford f 100, inch cable
spedometer cable
I recently bought a 1971 ford f-100.  The spedometer and odometer are not functioning.  When I check underneath, it looks like a cable has been cut.  There is a 6-inch cable screwed into the transmission, going nowhere.  I'm told that the truck was a converted from a 3-speed on the column to an automatic.  Is there anything I need to consider before attempting to install a spedometer/odometer cable?

Answer
It should be a straight forward replacement. Be aware that the gear at the transmission end of the cable can be purchased from Ford with different numbers of teeth. This will key the speedometer reading with the rear end ration. Check the speedometer for accuracy and change the gear as needed.
Brad