Front derailleur a bit wobbly, Having trouble adjusting, Replace?

[HelterSkelter]

I have a 2006 Giant XTC SE
I was having trouble with the rear derailleur last week (Shimano Deore). I couldnt adjust it properly and i narrowed the problem down to the shifter cable and housing, It was worn and i replaced it.
The problem was solved so i decided to change the front derailleur shifter cable too while i was at it.
Now im having problems adjusting the front derailleur (Shimano Alivio).
I cant get it to shift the chain down to smallest cog. I can adjust the cable tension so that it shifts down but then wont shift back up.
Upon closer inspection ive found that the front derailleur cage seems to be quite wobbly, With about 4mm of play. I think the pivots are worn and a new derailleur could be the answer.
Could it be this play that is giving me trouble?
Funny, It was working fine until i changed the cable!

 

[Tim Hall]

What happens if you pull the cable instead of using the shifter? This assumes your set up has a bit of bare cable in it somwhere, without any outer.

 

[HelterSkelter]

Hi Tim, If i pull the cable down it isnt enough to make it shift down. Just to clarify, The cable is adjusted so that it will shift up but not down.

 

[Cooper645]

front derailleur adjustment guide

HTH

 

[HelterSkelter]

Nice guide thanks.
Ive found that my barrel adjuster isnt working. The male threads are worn.
I'll get a new one and see how i get on.
Cheers!

 

[Cooper645]

Welcome