Not much left now. Cabling up time. I made the decision to keep all the original cables and outers when I started to strip the bike so I carefully removed them to minimise fraying. They weren't that corroded and nice and free running, plus the brake cables are the gorgeously thick 2mm monsters, you can't throw these bad boys away!
However even the big end caps I have were a tad too small so I needed the pillar drill to make them big enough. I think I should have cut my nails before this photoshoot!
Who would have though these would still be going strong? I must have bought these about 32 years ago and think they cost me circa £35 which is a lot for a teenager, but good tools last, plus they have a great retro look to boot!
I like to triple crimp my cable ends for aesthetic reasons. Not my best work, but acceptable for a Hardrock!
Got to love a U-brake. Love setting these up. Some people hate them, but I think they are rather splendiferous!
Some details....
Look the amazing grip detail on this straddle cable nipple!
Love the crude nylon block that replaces where the B adjustment tab & screw normally go. No idea why this wasn't integrated into part of the black washer/sleeve it screws into? Looks almost homemade which I love!
Also a big fan of the all steel barrel adjuster and it gorgeous knurling.
And one more detail you cannot see. All the High/Low adjustment screws on both derailleurs have vertical slots in them with nylon inserts to provide friction to prevent them vibrating loose. All great stuff on such a budget bike