How to Replace the Cable on Your Campagnolo Record 12s Disc Brake Front Derailleur for Better Performance

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Replacing the cable on your Campagnolo Record 12s Disc Brake [paid link] Front Derailleur is a critical maintenance task that ensures your shifting remains precise and smooth. Over time, cables can stretch, fray, or become contaminated with dirt and grime, all of which can affect shifting performance. Knowing how to replace the cable correctly will not only improve your bike’s performance but also extend the lifespan of your drivetrain.

Tools Required

  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 3mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Cable cutters
  • New derailleur cable
  • Cable housing (if necessary)
  • Lubricant (optional, for cable housing)
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (optional, for precise adjustments)
  • Chain cleaner (optional, for cleaning derailleur and chain)

Preparing for Cable Replacement

Before you start replacing the cable, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and ensure your bike is in a stable position. Place your bike on a work stand or secure it in a way that allows you to easily access the front derailleur.

Step 1: Remove the Old Cable

  1. Shift to the Small Chainring: Begin by shifting your front derailleur to the smallest chainring. This will relieve tension on the cable and make it easier to remove.
  2. Loosen the Derailleur Fixing Bolt: Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to loosen the bolt that holds the front derailleur to the frame. This step is necessary to allow for smooth cable removal.
  3. Release the Cable from the Derailleur: Find the cable anchor bolt on the derailleur. Using a 3mm Allen wrench, loosen the bolt that secures the cable. Pull the cable out of the derailleur body. If you are replacing both the inner cable and the housing, remove the cable housing as well.

Step 2: Inspect and Prepare the New Cable

  • Inspect Cable Housing: If the cable housing is frayed or damaged, replace it at this stage. Over time, cable housing can become brittle, and replacing it ensures smooth cable movement.
  • Lubricate the Cable (Optional): Applying a small amount of lubricant to the inner cable can help improve shifting performance. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant to avoid attracting dirt and debris.

Step 3: Install the New Cable

  1. Insert the Cable into the Housing: Thread the new inner cable through the derailleur housing, ensuring it moves freely without any binding. If the cable housing is new, make sure it’s cut to the correct length to avoid unnecessary slack.
  2. Anchor the Cable to the Derailleur: With the front derailleur in its smallest chainring position, insert the new inner cable through the derailleur body and secure it using the anchor bolt. Tighten the bolt using a 3mm Allen wrench. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the cable or derailleur.
  3. Route the Cable: Properly route the cable along the frame, ensuring it follows the correct path to avoid any interference with the chain or other components. Make sure the cable is properly seated in the cable stops and isn’t kinked or bent at sharp angles.

Step 4: Adjust the Tension and Test Shifting

  1. Reinstall the Front Derailleur: Tighten the front derailleur fixing bolt with a 5mm Allen wrench. Ensure it’s positioned properly, aligned with the chainrings, and not too tight or too loose.
  2. Adjust Cable Tension: With the new cable in place, use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune the tension. Turn the barrel adjuster clockwise to increase tension or counterclockwise to decrease it. Aim for smooth shifting without hesitation.
  3. Test the Shifting: Shift through all the chainrings while rotating the pedals to test the performance of the new cable. Ensure the derailleur moves smoothly and transitions cleanly between the chainrings. If the shifting is hesitant or rough, continue adjusting the cable tension until the derailleur moves with precision.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

  1. Check Limit Screws: After testing the shifting, ensure the limit screws on the front derailleur are properly adjusted. These screws prevent the derailleur from moving beyond the small and large chainrings, ensuring safe and accurate shifting.
  2. Test Under Load: To ensure proper performance under real-world conditions, test the shifting while riding the bike. Pay attention to any signs of slipping or skipping, as these can indicate that the cable tension may need further adjustment.

Conclusion

Replacing the cable on your Campagnolo Record 12s Disc Brake [paid link] Front Derailleur is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your bike’s shifting performance. By carefully following the installation and adjustment steps, you can ensure that your derailleur functions smoothly and efficiently for a long time. Proper cable maintenance is key to achieving optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your components.