Originally Posted by
mox
Check this possibility: A possible explanation for problem with a cable that looks quite new and too long. Whoever made this cable possibly used the type with left hand twist that is intended for use with the not so common speedos or tachos with the figures on the dial increasing in anti clockwise direction. If this is used in those with normal clockwise configuration - or the common clockwise cable is used for driving anti clockwise type instruments, they may work well until for some reason eg kinking or lack of lubrication, there is more than normal resistance. The correct cable simply winds itself tighter while overcoming this. However, the wrong ones unwind themselves, jam and break.