Ford Repair: Speedometer Question, ford ranger xlt, rear differential

Question
QUESTION: Hi Chris,

I have a 2000 Ford Ranger XLT with a V6 3.0 liter engine and automatic transmission. Tonight I went to take a drive and my speedometer and my odometer both weren't operating. Can you tell me what could be wrong and how I can fix it?

Thank you!

-Ray

ANSWER: hey there, there is a good possibilty that the transmission speed sensor is faulty. it is located on the back end of the transmission, on the tailshaft, close to where the drive shaft goes into the the transmission. if the replacement of this sensor does not work then there is a problem with the wiring, but you also have to rember to start off with the basics, always check all fuses befor getting more in depth with any electrical issue. let me know what happens.
Chris.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hey Chris,

I looked around and couldn't find that sensor. After some more homework someone told me that the sensor on the rear differential is the speed sensor (it looks like an octagon shaped sensor w/ 1 bolt holding it in.) I replaced that sensor but my speedo/odometer still don't work? And also, my indoor cab lights aren't working and neither are my windshield wipers. I already checked all the fuses so what should my next step be?

Thanks you so much for your help

-Ray

Answer
hey there, what you actualy replaced is a speed sensor for the ABS system,  and as for the the lights and windsheild wipers it sounds like you may have a harness with a rotted out section, this would be impossible to diagose on here, but all i can do is recomend to take it to a ford dealer for diagnostics, this spedometer issue you are have may very well be linked to the wiper and light problems.
Chris