Proper installation of used motorcycle cables
Part and parcel of owning a bike is maintaining its appearance
and its capability. Nevertheless, despite making sure that the
parts and cables of the motorcycle give us maximum service, we
cannot but accept that they have their own warranties and
lifetimes.
Unlike artwork or antiques, motorcycles are made to be used and
abused. With all the elements found in the environment,
motorcycle parts will definitely have its final day. When that
day comes and you don't have enough money to buy new ones, why
not settle for used motorcycle parts, e.g. cables? With a few
tinkering and proper installation, they might just provide you
the service you need in many years to come.
Here are some suggestions for proper installation of used
motorcycle parts and cables:
Tip #1: Inspect and make sure you have the correct cable. This
is the very first step in getting the best used cable you need.
Inspect the used cable for any major wear and tear. Remember
that these are used cables so it will definitely have a few
scratches; but it must not be too great that using it for just a
few days will result in a total bust. After you have checked
thoroughly, make sure you have the correct part for the
application, e.g. correct cable ends, proper size casing
ferrules, correct size, shape and thread size of
adjusters/elbows, etc.
Tip #2: Make sure all adjusters are in "closed" position.
Tip #3: Use a direct route for the cables. Route your used
cables from control to actuator in the most direct way possible.
Keep cables away from hot surfaces and avoid sharp bends, as
well as "kinks" in the housing or inner cable.
Tip #4: Adjust throttle/idle cables. These should be adjusted
the carb/s will return to full close when off. Adjust any
excessive freeplay and be sure throttle action is smooth and
free from open to full close before starting the engine. Also
make sure that the used cables do not bind together or hang up
when there is full lock-to-lock movement of bars.
Tip #5: Make sure clutch/brake cables are routed properly. This
is to avoid binding or hanging up the cables when there is full
lock-to-lock movement of bars. Also, cables that are routed
properly will not bind during compression of forks or
suspension. Install lever and actuator fittings, adjust freeplay
to correct specs and check for smooth-positive action. These are
done before starting the bike.
Tip #6: Route the speedometer/tachometer cables using a direct
path. Make sure that the cable will not hang up on the caliper
when forks compressed on the front wheel drive speedometer
cable. This is what usually happens with aftermarket calipers
because they often come in a larger size or different shape.
Always make sure that the inner cable is well-lubed with light
grease when installing and removing. Clean and re-grease
regularly for maintenance.
Tip #7: Avoid having contact with painted surfaces when
installing stainless steel braided cables. The braided surfaces
of these used cables are very abrasive. You can use shrink or
spiral wrap and/or cable guides when needed. And because
stainless braided cables are less flexible, always keep this in
mind when getting measurements for applications that are
tailored according to your specifications. Clean and lube like
any conventional cable assemblies.
And like any other used motorcycle parts, keep used cables clean
and properly lubricated when necessary. Always check on the
proper adjustments and inspect for any wear and tear on a
regular basis. Signs to look out for are torn or worn housing,
frayed wires, and signs of bending or kinking at the controls.
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