Stiff front mech
knack-knees
Posts: 56
For the last 3 rides I've had a stiff front mech. It'll shift small to large but not back down - what I've doing it oiling and lubing, repeat, repeat but it's stiff!
The only way to get it going is to spend 10 mins physically moving the mech forwards and backwards, over and over.
Is there a way to fix this or should I assign it to the bin?
Thanks.
The only way to get it going is to spend 10 mins physically moving the mech forwards and backwards, over and over.
Is there a way to fix this or should I assign it to the bin?
Thanks.
0
Comments
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Take it off, dunk it in degreaser and get stuck in with an old toothbrush. Also check the cable, particularly under the bottom bracketMake mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..0
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If you disconnect the cable is it still stiff ?
Like MD says its probably gunked up and needs a good lube and clean.0 -
If it's still stiff once the cable's removed, best to bite the bullet and replace the thing. They are mechanically simple things and relatively cheap.
I've wasted hours of my life and gallons of solvents and lubes faffing with sticky front mechs, and never brought one back to life for long.
Couple of mouse clicks on CRC and you could be down the pub in 5 mins.0 -
Could be a bent cage?0
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I have fixed them by running WD40 into the moving parts to release the contaminants, moving the unit through it's full range several times, then running some heavier lubricant (e.g. engine oil) into the part. I'd steer away from heavy duty solvents, they can cause the plastic bushes to swell up and bind.- - - - - - - - - -
On Strava.{/url}0 -
Thanks fellas - i'll take it off and check it more and get back to you.0