I decided to replace my gear cables today. Bought cheap shimano cables (R15 per cable) and shimano housing (R20 per meter, 2 meters required). First off, WHAT A DIFFERENCE. The gear changes are now quick, precise and easy. Change took about an hour. (next time should only take 20mins) I started off by opening up my shifters, loosening the cables from the derailleurs and pulling the cables loose. I kept the pieces of cable housing for the next step. I then cut the new cable housing to the same lengths of the pieces I was replacing. This was a bit more difficult than expected, seeing as I have a basic cable cutter, and the cable housing is quite tough. I cleaned the cable housing plugs (the bits that go over the cable housing to ensure that very little dirt goes into it) and then sprayed them with Q20 (dont know if it will help, but I'm hoping it reduces rust and water entering the housings). I cleaned the inside of the shifters with a bit tissue and then also sprayed it with Q20. There was quite a bit of dirt in, which probably means I far too often sit at the back of the pack in races and hence sit in the dust... When the shifters were clean I fed the cables through the shifters and through all the required holes to the derailleurs (also putting cable housings in correct places). Back derailleur : I forced the derailleure to put the chain in the third smalles sprocket (3rd fasted gear). I then put the barrel screw on and screw it all the way in and then 1.5 turns out. This ensured that if required, I could loosen or tighten the cable. I fed the cable through the fastening bolt, pulled it tight with a plyer and tightened the bold. Front deraulleur: This was quite easy. I screw the barrel screw at the shifter all the way in and then 1.5 turns out. I pulled the cable through the fastening bolt, pulled it tight with a plyer and fastened the bolt. Job done. Went for a ride afterwards and absolutely loved it. Cannot believe cable changes makes such a big difference. If there are any hints, please post it.
