Most likely the lubrication in the cable drive is drying out. IF the noise continued no matter what, then I'd also suspect the speedometer itself.
BTW: The cable comes out the BOTTOM END of the housing. No need to undo at the top unless you have a lubricant that will flow down the cable before setting.
You can crawl under the passenger's side and unscrew the bottom of the housing from the trans. There is no nut, just a knurled fitting that you should be able to unscrew by hand. Otherwise, a GENTLE persuasion with a pair of pliers will get it started for you.
Pull the inner cable out and wipe off the old lube with a rag, watching for rough or frayed spots. If all appears OK, re-lube with a graphite lubricant that won't stiffen in cold weather. Re-insert, twisting until you feel the top end of the cable slip into the speedo fitting. Make sure you don't cross thread the trans fitting when you put it back on.
If the old inner cable is frayed, you can get a generic replacement kit at any auto parts store. You'll need to carefully cut the new cable to length and install the little fitting on the end - it requires a hammer.
Should cost about $9.00.
Good luck!
Steve
|