I have a 1988 4x4 Burb that has a Cable speedo, But my check engine code says I have a VSS. These 88' 4x4 Burbs didn't come with both did they?

[Frogman2]

I'm wondering If not, then is it possible that the ECU was changed at some point ?. or the transfer case and gauge cluster was changed ?I only see a cable and I know that it is indeed a cable becasue I just greased it yesterday and plugged it back in. From what I have seen the VSS would go where the cable goes in at the transfer case with the later years. Interesting thing is that Oreily's sales a VSS for a 1988 Suburban. The fact that my computer code says that I have a Vehicle speed sensor issue is what is really scratching my head. Any help would be great.

 

[ZooMad75]

The only years with an electric speedometer in a Squarebody was 90-91. However, if you look at the backside of your cluster you might notice a little green box. That green box has a separate harness going to it. That is the VSS.

 

[dyeager535]

VSS bolts to the back of the speedometer on your year. As mentioned, light blue or green plastic box.

If you have speedometer issue it would obviously cause an issue with the VSS, it relies on the speedometer operating properly to work right.

I'd try wiggling wires, checking fuses, etc., before replacing it. They have no moving parts and don't see much current at all, so it would be unusual for it to just die. Possible, just no common.

 

[Frogman2]

The only years with an electric speedometer in a Squarebody was 90-91. However, if you look at the backside of your cluster you might notice a little green box. That green box has a separate harness going to it. That is the VSS.

I did a little searching around and found the same answer as well, thank you, on point.

 

[Frogman2]

VSS bolts to the back of the speedometer on your year. As mentioned, light blue or green plastic box.

If you have speedometer issue it would obviously cause an issue with the VSS, it relies on the speedometer operating properly to work right.

I'd try wiggling wires, checking fuses, etc., before replacing it. They have no moving parts and don't see much current at all, so it would be unusual for it to just die. Possible, just no common.

Oh great point, thank you.

 

[Frogman2]

You guys rock! I looked at the back of the gauge cluster and there it wasn't LOL. It was not inserted and screwed in, Just all by itself hanging from the little green box . I put the sensor in place screwed it in with that one screw , reinstalled everything , and drove it to the smog shop with out a check engine light coming on. It passed smog!! Thanks a million!