Not sure if it's normal for the Panhard Rod to be so close to the speedo sensor in the differential housing but it had warn through the insulation on the speedo sensor wire right at the plug. The attached image shows the exposed wires as well as what appears to be a disconnected ground wire? Anyone know if that is a ground and where it's supposed to be connected?

Finally got the little rectangular box open that is inline on the speedo wire in the left compartment of the wagon. I was surprised to find it only contains a plug disconnect. Why the elaborate little box treatment?

If you're experiencing a speedo that occasionally drops to zero for long periods of time, check this before diving into the dash cluster. TD