1999 Golf III speedometer works intermitently!

The speedometer on my 1999 Golf III (automatic transmission) has been acting up; in that - it works for a while, then it just sits at 0. For whatever reason, when the speedo is not responding the fuel gauge will also fluctuate? All of the rest of the gauges on the cluster work fine. I have replaced the "speedometer transmitter" and the problem still persists. I have checked and cleaned the connector, and wires! Although, I have also heard on another forum the problem might stem from a loose wire on the cluster due to a cracked or loose solder point. Another possible fix might be the VSS (vehicle speed sensor), but I was told by a former VW mechanic that that sensor has a different function unrelated to the speedo.

Anyway, it is a most aggravating problem when everything else works fine, it runs like a top. All told, I would appreciate any insight or ideas that might narrow down what might be the cause, and better yet a possible fix; other than the obvious > a newer VW or Audi!

Doug