Newbie needs help replacing gear cables

n0sfera268

Hi all,

I am really interested in learning how to maintain my own bike and would really appreciate any help any of you guys could offer.

I have a GT Aggressor 1.0 and need to replace the gear cables as the front one is frayed.
The shifters are Shimano EF50 Rapidfire.
The problem is that I can't see anyway to remove the cable from the shifter.
Please could anyone help me out with this.

Thanks

nicklouse

Top cover comes off. Then out comes the cable.

Downloading the manual from shimanos webby would be an idea.

bikaholic

Tools needed
1. Good cable cutter
2. Philips screwdriver
3. 5mm Allen Key (for derailleur clamp bolt)
4. Small pointed tool (eg needle, 1mm flat screwdriver, compass etc)


The shifting mechanism and cable retainer will be under the pod cover. Unscrew the two screws and lift off the pod cover in order to access it.

Then, click the shifter to the zero position before removing the cable.

You may need the small pointed tool to prize out the cable barrel head.

Tip 1: Cut the old inner cable at the exposed section nearest the derailleur clamp bolt for removal. Do not try to remove it by simply unclamping the derailleur bolt and pulling the inner cable through the housing because the small flat deformed section caused by the clamp bolt may damage the internal integrated liner in the housing.

Tip 2: If the rear shifting is getting sloppy, then take this opportunity to replace the rear inner cable as well. You will only need to buy one new inner gear cable for both jobs as you can reuse the old rear inner cable on the front.

Tip 3: If both inner cable and outer housing are new, then no lubricant is needed. If either one or both are used then put one or two drops of light oil into the housing prior to feeding the inner cable through it.

Installaion is the reverse of removal.

Indexing the gear shifting is easy, but look up the Park Tools website if you're having trouble.

n0sfera268

Thanks for replying guys.

Nick - Thanks, I did look at the exploded diagram but it doesn't really show where the cable goes.

Bikaholic - I did wonder if I needed to take the top cover off but was worried about springs and things flying out everywhere. But I'm sure I'll be able to do it now with your awesome advice.

Thanks again.