1. Safety First: Secure the vehicle on level ground using jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental short circuits.
2. Locate the Cable: The speedometer cable enters the transmission on the driver's side, usually near the bottom. It's a fairly flexible cable with a fitting at both ends. You'll likely need a flashlight to see it clearly.
3. Prepare for Removal: You'll need a suitable wrench or socket to remove the cable from the transmission. The fitting is usually a simple clamp or nut. Sometimes a small amount of rust or corrosion may make this difficult. Penetrating oil applied a few hours beforehand can help.
4. Disconnect the Cable: Carefully remove the nut or clamp securing the cable to the transmission. Take note of how it's oriented before removal in case of difficulties re-assembling.
5. Access from the Instrument Cluster (Optional): You might also need to access the cable at the instrument cluster in the dash. This usually involves removing the instrument cluster itself (which requires more steps and might involve removing some trim pieces). This is only necessary if you're replacing the entire cable.
Important Considerations:
* Transmission Type: The precise location and accessibility of the cable may vary slightly between automatic and manual transmissions.
* Rust and Corrosion: On a 1991 vehicle, rust and corrosion can make this process more challenging. Use penetrating oil liberally and be patient. Damaged or broken parts are a possibility.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1991 Toyota pickup 2WD is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions, making the process much easier and less prone to error.
If you're uncomfortable working under your vehicle or are not mechanically inclined, it's best to take your truck to a qualified mechanic. Improperly working under a vehicle can be extremely dangerous.
