Newer Speedometers

[Likuski53]

To disconnect the newer Speedos from the cable do you need a special tool to release the plastic ring? I don't want to get too rammy with it and break the plastic, I need it again. Or, is the plastic fitting a nut as well? Also does anyone know why the Trannies went from the early gear ratios then switched back again after 1980. Is the older set of ratios a better fit? Can the earlier ('74) trannies be mated up to a '80 motor for better performance?

[So Cal Mark]

on the speedo cable, slide the ring back away from the speedo. the cable will then simply pull off of the speedo. Trannies can be swapped between all years/engines. The one exception is the 1438 motor used a smaller bellhousing. But bellhousings can be swapped.
Diff ratios changed in 79, so that might explain why ratios changed

[mbouse]

Yup, GENTLY slide the ring back toward the cable and it should release those plastic fingers.

if you find that the assembly will not securely stay on when you swap it out, you can add a tie wrap or hose clamp to hold it in place....

cheap plastic does wear out after a while.

[Likuski53]

Thanks guys I thought that might be it but with the weather cooling off here I didn't want to get too rough with plastic bits.