Help with adjusting gears!

[ScotiaLass]

Okay, so I've had this problem since just before I went into hospital (4 weeks ago) and as I've only got back on the bike this week, I need it sorting, but the LBS mechanic is on holiday and they can't do it until next week - and then they usually take a few days as he is so busy.

The best I can describe it is this:
when I try to drop down to the lowest gear ( 2 to 1, left hand trigger), you just hear the chain rattling around and not engaging. I have tried moving the gears up and down but it just won't go, meaning I have no lower gears.

I am sure it's just a matter of adjusting the gears, but how?
Can anyone point me to a step by step guide, in pictures or video?
It needs to be idiot proof

 

[subaqua]

http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/article/how-to-adjust-the-gears-on-your-bike-video-23582/

hope this helps. if was closer would pop round and do it

 

[smokeysmoo]

 

[Deleted member 35268]

I spend most of my time adjusting gearing, a complete time burglar. I will learn to master it one day.

 

[Tim Hall]

Can we get this video put up as a sticky?

 

[the snail]

Could be a worn/sticky cable or derailleur - try cleaning/lubricating them, or possibly you need a new cable?

 

[ScotiaLass]

Could be a worn/sticky cable or derailleur - try cleaning/lubricating them, or possibly you need a new cable?

The bike is only 6 months old. It is always cleaned, dried and lubed after every ride.
I could try cleaning/lubing the cable first...

 

[smokeysmoo]

The bike is only 6 months old. It is always cleaned, dried and lubed after every ride.
I could try cleaning/lubing the cable first...

I fubar'd a rear mech cable on a brand new MTB in one ride once upon a time.

The short section of cable that goes to the rear mech was the culprit. I've always put a dab of grease over the open ends ever since and I've never had he problem again

 

[ufkacbln]

The bike is only 6 months old. It is always cleaned, dried and lubed after every ride.

WOT?



I bet you even check your tyre pressures!

 

[ScotiaLass]

WOT?



I bet you even check your tyre pressures!

Uhuh....lol

 

[Garry A]

Maybe the limit screw needs adjusted.

 

[slowmotion]

@ScotiaLass, is the problem with the front or rear derailleur? The left hand shifter moves the front one on my bike. Is that the same with yours?

 

[ScotiaLass]

@ScotiaLass, is the problem with the front or rear derailleur? The left hand shifter moves the front one on my bike. Is that the same with yours?

Yes

 

[raleighnut]

Try unscrewing the L limit screw in half a turn increments until it allows the front mech to move enough without it dropping the chain inboard of the sprocket.

 

[ScotiaLass]

That's strange!
I watched the video to get an idea of how the gearing works (I know, I know!). I then lifted the back wheel off the ground (don't have a stand) and clicked through the gearing.
The bl**dy thing clicked into 1st fine! But when I'm riding and go to change down when I'm pedalling uphill, it just rattles around!

I will solve this....
Oh and I rode it around the garden...it wouldn't change up from 1st to 2nd!!