Why doesn't Odometer on 1997 chevy pick up not working

Hello BDG, The answer is no. If the VSS fails on your 97 Chevy, you will lose both speedometer and odometer functions. If your speedo is still working and your odometer is not, you have a broke odometer. This is a common failure with a lot of the older vehicles that were fitted with the mechanical odometer registers. Feel free to contact Kincer's Service for a repair salution.
GM Instrument Cluster Speedometer Repair Service

ever find the problem?im havin same thing

could be the VSS - vehicle speed sensor .
Speedometer and Odometer
The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is a gear driven permanent magnet generator. The vehicle transaxle houses the VSS. The VSS generates a sine wave output with a frequency proportional to the vehicle speed.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) converts the CKT 389 signal to an output that switches to ground at a frequency of 4000 pulses per mile. The CKT 389 signal drives the speedometer and the odometer. Various other vehicle components use the CKT 389 signal. Refer to Engine Controls.

they are spring loaded and mechanical. if a spring wears out or breaks it won't work. you can replace it with another one but the actual miles won't be there or you could go with a digital set.

try checking the fuses

you do not fix it, you buy another instrument cluster from a junkyard or eBay, then you swap them.
the car will not be worth another dollar with a working odometer, i would just put up with it as a sign of an aging, but otherwise still useful, vehicle.

I would look into replacing the fuel filter next,, it could be obstructed but not plugged and you are running out of fuel at 60 mph

If your cluster gauges work ok but your speedo does not work once and awhile, its time to replace your cluster panel, this is a common problem in the MK3's I had to change mine twice in the MK3 vdubs I own. Its fairly easy to replace, I just picked up a used one at a scrap yard. The cluster panel is all once peace you can not swap out gauages, you can try but you will do more damage then its worth. Good luck

vdubs 4-ever

The speedometer head is bad. You need to replac the speedometer head with either a new one or a used one. My choice would be a new one since this is a common problem with the nissan pick up. I have had one of my own go bad and act just like the one you have.

yes its the battery therminal thats dirty pierre