[patrickt]

Regarding the speedometer, I have the reverse Smiths, all mechanical, gauge and it has worked flawlessly for ten years now. But, there are three points to having one that you have to know about: 1) The cable itself requires special lubrication; and 2) The reverser on the back of the speedometer requires special lubrication (actually, it has a zerk fitting just like your ball joint and you have to grease it pretty much the same way); and 3) There is a critical length tolerance to the little thingy that connects the reverser to the speedometer itself. I have posted detailed threads with picks on all of this, so it's pretty easy to find. If you follow the instructions, and have the right plastic transmission gear, your mechanical Smiths will read accurately, the needle will not bounce, and it will run smoothly and quietly -- and nothing looks as cool as a reverse Smiths, or any Smiths for that matter.