speedometer problems

The speedometer on my 90' continental isn't working, it lights up but it doesn't tell me my speed. what could the problem be?

Is that a digital or manual cluster?

its a digital

Looking through the possible causes a few questions come up:
Is the Odometer working?
Are there any other problems like maybe the Check Engine warning, or....?
Have you run a "self test" through the Message Center looking for warnings?

PS: Is this the same cluster config? The earliest manual I can get is the 1992
http://www.MyOnlineImages.com/Members/dchartney/images/1992ContiCluster.jpg

There are no warning messages. The trip distance, fuel economy messages dont work but are lit up and the odometer. That diagram is the exact cluster I have.

There are no warning messages. The trip distance, fuel economy messages dont work but are lit up and the odometer. That diagram is the exact cluster I have.


I don't have time at the moment, I have to rush off to a class. When I get a minute I'll look up the "Vehicle Speed Sensor"....

I'm thinking that VSS may be the problem:
= either it's loose and out of adjustment, or it may be disconnected.

Hi did you manage to find anything out about my problem?

Hi did you manage to find anything out about my problem?

First, I apologise for the delay, I've been tending to other issues, and forgot all about this request.

Here's what I found... going with the suspected VSS. I think the VSS Vehicle Speed Sensor may be disconnected, loose, or defective. In any case, it needs to be checked as a suspect for this problem.

PS --
Woah, Stop the presses... I just noticed this car has a Speedometer Cable from the VSS to ??? You'd better check that first.

Below you'll find information on the VSS and a PRELIMINARY TEST (cluster quick self test) to be sure the cluster is working correctly.


Power and Illumination

Description

Battery keeps the cluster logic board powered all the time.

Pulse width dimming module (PWD) sends out pulsing signals that depend on the rheostat position. For dim lighting, amount of time the pulse is ON, is very short in comparison to time it is OFF. For bright lighting the ON time is longer as compared to OFF time.


Dimming

When in RUN, turning on headlamps activates PWD module. This signal goes through the ILR module and then to the EIC. The EIC reads pulses and uses them to control the EIC light bulb intensity.

When a warning occurs the EIC goes to maximum nighttime brightness if set low. If set at maximum, then there is no change.


Cluster Quick Self Test

NOTE:
Perform this test prior to performing any diagnostics.

1. While simultaneously depressing all three cluster control assembly CCA switches, turn ignition to RUN.

2. To verify test mode, new numbers will appear in the speedometer and odometer windows.

3. If any CCA symbol is flashing, replace the cluster.

NOTE:
The message center control assembly, (MCCA) symbols may flash. This is normal with the ignition in RUN and the engine off, for Steps 1, 2 and 3.

NOTE:
Pressing gauge select button accesses other diagnostic modes that are used for engineering purposes only.

4. To leave test mode, turn ignition to OFF or press speed alarm switch.


Quick Check

Turn ignition switch to RUN. Check both CCA and MCCA displays for normal operation.

DIM Display -- Check if headlamps are on and the rheostat setting is high. If lighting is not improved the bulbs may be burned out

CCA Display Blank -- If MCCA OK, the wiring to CCA lamps from CCA is open or all CCA bulbs are burned out.

MCCA Display Blank -- If CCA OK, then wiring to the MCCA lamps from the CCA is open or all the MCCA bulbs are burned out.

NOTE:
If displays are blank, the cluster may be working but with no lamps. If cluster is working, check as described below.

EIC Blank--Use strong light and shine into front of EIC displays. If EIC is working, a faint image of a normal display should be seen.

http://www.MyOnlineImages.com/Members/dchartney/images/1992ClusterPower.jpg




Speed Sensor


AXOD-E Transaxle


Removal

1. Raise vehicle on hoist.

2. Remove Y-pipe and HEGO sensors from exhaust system.

3. Remove speed sensor exhaust heat shield.

4. Remove bolt retaining speed sensor mounting clip to transaxle.

5. Remove speed sensor and driven gear from transaxle.

http://www.MyOnlineImages.com/Members/dchartney/images/1992ContiVSS.jpg


6. Disconnect electrical connector and speedometer cable from sensor.

NOTE:
Vehicles equipped with an electronic instrument cluster do not have a speedometer cable.

NOTE:
Do not attempt to remove spring retainer clip with speedometer cable in sensor.

7. Remove driven gear retainer. Remove driven gear from speed sensor.


Installation

1. Position driven gear in speed sensor and install gear retainer.

2. Connect electrical connector to speed sensor.

3. Ensure internal O-ring is seated properly in sensor housing. Snap the speedometer cable into speed sensor.

4. Insert sensor assembly into transaxle and secure with retaining bolt.

5. Install speed sensor exhaust heat shield.

6. Install Y-pipe and HEGO sensors to exhaust system.

7. Lower vehicle and verify proper speedometer/odometer operation.