BJ Series Land Cruiser

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Tachometer

Many tachometers in the 60 series (at least the diesel models) have a tendency to become erratic or stop working. In some cases, it's the sensor on the bellhousing that goes, requiring replacement of the part. But if the tach works occasionally, and stays at any given reading (other than 0) the rest of the time, then this fix (devised by Shaun Wilkinson) may be for you.

It seems there's a problem with the design of the tach itself. The dial needle is sprung both ways, so if the tach sensor isn't working, it should read 0. If it doesn't, then it's very likely that the plastic "cage" that holds these springs is simply too tight (plastic shrinking with age?). Here's how to fix it:

  1. Unscrew the dash cluster, and the tach from the cluster;
  2. Remove the clear plastic face plate from the tach, pull the needle off, unscrew the metal face plate;
  3. At the bottom (looking straight on, as if it were still in the dash), you'll see two screws that hold the plastic "cage" that holds the springs. Loosen these screws until the springs freely reset the indicator to 0.
  4. Squirt a little WD40 and reassemble.
It might be a good idea to put in a couple of washers so that those bottom screws remain tight, but on the other hand, I can't imagine them falling out. And being too loose shouldn't hurt either.