Cadillac and Plymouth Repair Guide
1997 Cadillac Catera Vacuum Diagrams, 1997 Plymouth Neon Speedometer
A 1997 Cadillac Catera that needs vacuum diagrams and a 1997 Plymouth Neon with an inoperative speedometer.
This weekly Q&A session answers your questions about cars and trucks. This week explores a 1997 Cadillac Catera that needs vacuum diagrams and a 1997 Plymouth Neon with an inoperative speedometer.
Question:
Hi, while searching online, I came across a website where you answered someone's question concerning a 1997 Cadillac Catera. I have a Catera and I am online trying to find a vacuum hose routing diagram. Any suggestions as to what sites I may find this? Any help will be appreciated.
Stephanie Cummings
Answer:
There are many different vacuum diagrams for that vehicle. In order to get you the right vacuum diagram you would need to know the production date of the vehicle and if it is a federal model or California model. You would also need to know what system you need it for or if you just want all the vacuum diagrams for the vehicle.
The production date is located on the drivers door post and the Vehicle Emission Information label is under the hood, usually on the radiator cover. Once you have that information you can get the right diagrams.
Question: 1997 Plymouth Neon
Hi, I bought my car a year ago and haven't had much problems, but was wondering if you could help me with my speedometer and odometer not working. I want to repair it myself if possible, before spending a lot at a dealership. I've been pulled over twice because of speeding and not knowing how fast I was going.
Thanks in advance,
Elizabeth
Answer:
The most likely reason the speedometer and odometer not working is due to a bad Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS). The speedometer and odometer receive their information from the VSS on manual and 3-speed automatic transmission applications. On vehicles equipped with the 41TE transmission the information comes from the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to the instrument cluster.
So you will need to determine which transmission you have before doing anything.
Assuming you do not have the 41TE transmission for the moment, here is how you replace the VSS. It's really very easy to do.
Removal:
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor.
- Remove the sensor-mounting bolt.
- Lift the sensor out of the transaxle extension housing. Ensure the 0-ring was removed with the sensor.
Note: The speed sensor gear meshes with a gear on the output shaft.
Installation:
- With the 0-ring in place, install the sensor and seat sensor by hand to ensure proper gear engagement.
- Install the mounting bolt and torque bolt to 20 in lb.
- Connect the electrical connector to sensor.
So, basically, it's a simple part swap. The VSS is Chrysler part number 4707386 and lists for about $41.75 and it should take you about 30 minutes to replace.
That's all for this week. Feel free to browse the archives for past topics and other resources. And, as always, if you are stuck and need an immediate answer you can always call Vince on the phone.
