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CABLE CARE
Always keep cable clean,
properly lubricated where necessary and in proper adjustment. Visually
inspect on a regular basis for torn or worn housing, frayed wires, signs of
bending or kinking at the controls. Keep free of dirt and grime at the
controls and activators. If cable is equipped with rubber covers, boots,
etc., make sure no water or dirt has become trapped in them.
When lubricating cables, use a light viscosity oil, or aerosol spray such as
Teflon sprays, Dri Slide, WD-40 and others. Do not use heavy oils or grease
and especially do not use chain lube, as they can attract dirt, sand, etc.,
and can bind up the cable.
Most cables fail at the lever or throttle because the fitting does not pivot
freely and the cable bends with each movement of the control instead of
pulling straight. Make sure the fitting is the correct size and shape for
the control and always keep it lubed and your cables will give you maximum
service.
Cable Installation
Inspect cable and make sure that you have the correct part for the
application-correct cable ends, proper size casing ferrules, that the
adjusters/elbows are the correct size, shape and thread size. Also make sure
the overall length of the cable is correct.
Make sure all adjusters are in "closed" position.
Route cable from control to actuator in the most direct route available,
usually in the same manner as factory cable. Keep cables away from hot
surfaces as much as possible, avoid sharp bends, and do not "kink" housing
or inner cable.
Throttle/idle cables should be adjusted so that carb(s) return to full close
when in off position. Any excessive freeplay should be adjusted out. Be sure
throttle action is smooth and free from full open to full close before
starting engine. Make sure cables do not bind or hang up with full
lock-to-lock movement of bars.
Clutch/brake cables should be routed properly, making sure they will not
bind or hang up with full lock-to-lock movement of bars or compression of
forks or suspension. Install lever and actuator fittings, adjust freeplay to
correct specs and check for smooth-positive action, before starting bike.
Miscellaneous cables - choke, compression release, spark advance, etc. (See
tips in sections #4 & #5).
Speedometer/tachometer cables - route as directly as possible. On a front
wheel drive speedometer cable, make sure that the cable will not hang-up on
the caliper when forks are compressed. This is a common problem when
aftermarket calipers are used, as they often are larger in size, or a
different shape. Make sure the inner cable is well-lubed with a light grease
when installing and removing. Also be sure to clean and re-grease it on a
regular maintenance basis.
Stainless Steel Braided cables - use caution when installing to avoid
contact with painted surfaces. The braided surface is very abrasive. Use
shrink or spiral wrap and/or cable guides as needed. Stainless Braided
cables are less flexible; take this into consideration when measuring for
custom applications. Clean and lube as you would conventional cable
assemblies.
Summation - follow the preceding tips and you should get many years of
service from your cables. Simply make sure you have the proper fitting cable
for the job and always select good-quality, well-made control cables. Cheap,
poor quality cables will not last or work as well and may put you, your bike
and others at risk on the road or trail!
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