1987-1988 Mercury Cougar Speedometer Cable Replacement Guide
If your '87 or '88 Cougar's speedometer is bouncing or making noise, the cable is the likely culprit.
- This part is only for 1987-1988 Cougars; 1989+ models use an electronic sensor.
- The only widely available new part is a Lokar "U-Cut-to-Fit" cable, which requires custom installation.
- Proper lubrication with graphite-based lube and routing without sharp bends are critical to prevent noise and bouncing.
- A bouncing needle or whining noise are the classic symptoms of a failing cable.
Is This The Right Guide For Your Cougar?
Critical Model Year Information: 1987-1988 vs. 1989-1993
This guide applies only to the 1987 and 1988 Mercury Cougar, which use a mechanical speedometer cable. Starting in 1989, the Cougar switched to an electronic speedometer that uses a Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) at the transmission and has no long cable running to the dash. If you have a 1989-1993 Cougar, a faulty speedometer is likely caused by a bad VSS, wiring issues, or a problem in the instrument cluster itself, not a cable.
Symptoms of a Failing Speedometer Cable
A failing speedometer cable on an '87 or '88 Cougar gives clear warning signs. Because it's a physical, spinning part, failure is usually gradual and comes with distinct symptoms.
- Bouncing Speedometer Needle: This is the most common symptom. A cable that is dry, kinked, or binding will cause the needle to jump around instead of moving smoothly.
- Whining or Chirping Noises: You may hear a squeaking or whining sound from behind the dashboard that changes pitch and frequency with your speed. This is the sound of the dry inner cable spinning inside its housing.
- Stuck or Inaccurate Speedometer: The needle might get stuck at a certain speed or read much lower than you are actually traveling. Eventually, the inner cable can snap, causing the speedometer and odometer to stop working completely.
Choosing The Right Aftermarket Part: Lokar U-Cut-to-Fit Cables
Original Ford speedometer cables for a vehicle of this age are no longer in production. The primary high-quality aftermarket option available is from Lokar. It's important to understand that Lokar cables are not simple, direct-fit replacements.
What is a "U-Cut-to-Fit" Cable?
Lokar provides a universal-style cable that you must customize for your specific vehicle. The kit includes a long cable housing (typically 7 feet) and an inner drive cable. You will need to route the new cable, measure the exact length needed, cut both the outer housing and inner cable, and then crimp a new tip onto the inner cable. This requires careful measurement and the right tools.
While this process is more involved than swapping a pre-made part, it results in a custom-fit cable with no excess length that could cause kinks or binding. Lokar cables are known for their quality construction, often featuring a braided stainless steel or black housing and a specially extruded liner for long life.
Estimated Costs for Speedometer Cable Replacement
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Lokar Kit) | $110 - $150 |
| New OEM | Not Generally Available |
| Used OEM (Junkyard) | $20 - $50 (Not Recommended) |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $300 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a Lokar cut-to-fit cable myself?
Yes, if you are a confident DIY mechanic with the right tools. The process involves removing parts of the dash to access the back of the instrument cluster, routing the cable through the firewall, and carefully cutting and crimping the new cable. You will need tools like a fine-toothed hacksaw or cutoff wheel for the housing, strong diagonal cutters for the inner wire, and a crimping tool or hammer-and-die set for the new cable tip.
Why is my new speedometer cable still bouncing?
There are a few common reasons. First, ensure the cable was properly lubricated with a light graphite-based speedometer cable lube before installation. Do not use heavy grease. Second, check the cable routing. The cable must have smooth, gentle bends and no sharp kinks between the transmission and the speedometer. Finally, inspect the plastic speedometer gear on the transmission, as worn or stripped teeth can also cause a bounce.
Are there any recalls for the speedometer cable on my Cougar?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the speedometer or speedometer cable on the 1987-1993 Mercury Cougar.
What's the difference between a black and a stainless steel Lokar cable?
The difference is purely cosmetic. Both versions use the same quality inner cable and fittings. The stainless steel housing offers a classic, high-performance look, while the black housing provides a more subtle, OEM-style appearance. Choose the one that best fits your vehicle's style.
Technical Specifications
The key specification for the available Lokar aftermarket part is its 'U-Cut-to-Fit' design. The kits typically come with an 84-inch (7-foot) cable that must be cut to the correct length for the vehicle. The speedometer head connection is a standard 5/8-18 thread.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mercury Cougar: