97 ranger 2.3L 5speed 2WD speedometer

[thateb]

97 ranger 2.3L 5speed 2WD speedometer

My speedometer has been going haywire for some time now. Either it is dead when I drive or it bounces around rather randomly. I have replaces the ABS sensor on top of the rear differential. I have also replaced the instrument cluster with one out of a 1997 Ford Explorer with a tachometer. Neither parts have changed the behavior. I have read on the tech library on this site that there is a vehicle speed sensor on the (VSS) on the "tail" of the transmission. I cant spot it. It also says that the VSS is the same part as the ABS sensor on the top of the differential in back. Are these statements true?

Thanks.

 

[LearjetMinako]

No. The VSS is on the tail end of the transmission. Located on the driver's side, near the top. The pre-97 used a gear driven electric speedo. Only one bolt hold the part in place. The 98 & newer uses the ABS on the diff for speed readings.

Usually a speedo bouncing needle on a 97 indicates a connection problem. It could also be that the gear is worn-out and/or needs to be adjusted slightly.