Shimano quick fire problem

[Cycle_Stu]

Hit a bit of a problem today. The left shifter (1-3) made some grinding noises then promptly seized. The levers do not move at all. I take it this means a trip to LBS ? Is this gonna be expensive?

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

I shouldn't think it should be too bad since even a new rapid fire front brifter or shifter isn't too expensive.

If you are reasonably handy then if I were you I would first check if the front mech is jammed, if not release the cable (from the front mech) and open the shifter up to see if the mechanism inside is obstructed by muck, in any case see why it seized. This is a rather involved guide on servicing something very similar, but hopefully it won't come to that in your case - and as I said a replacement can be bought fairly cheaply.

Good luck!

 

[Cycle_Stu]

Thanks for the response, That site was pretty good. The front mech was stuck which was probably what caused the issue. Front mech is now fine. Shifter is goosed:

I took the cover off and discovered that one of the plastic gears has broken (highlighted the broken one in the pic and a normal one). So I think I'm gonna change out the shifters myself. The gear cables were needing done anyway, so 2 birds one stone.

The shifters are Shimano ST-EF 20 - certainly an old design (at least 12 years!). I've seen these shifters on ebay for £25.

Anyone have any other recommendations that i could fit? they need to be compatible with canti's and 7 speed freewheel.

Thanks.

Stu

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

These e.g. should work.

See the commet here for setting it up for Canti's.

 

[Cycle_Stu]

Yep - they look the business. Cheaper and with free postage. Result .

Thanks again for your help.