I have a feeling at 174k, my speedometer gear is failing.  Since I've
neverseen a post on this list that describes the symptoms, I'll describe
mine and see what happens.  Occasionally, when I start out for a
drive,  the van will move and the speedo needle won't.  The odometer
continues to accrue mileage.  One or two slaps to the instrument  cluster
housing will usually bring it back to life.  Don't see the speedo cable
being at fault if the odo is still spinning.  have I correctly diagnosed
the problem?  Am I at least in the ballpark?

Dimwitted Moose and Flying Squirrel.