Sticky STI gear shifters

[sickpup]

Evening chaps

I now have 3 push push type DX/XT STI gear shifter pods that are on the sticky side with slow returns. Whats the usual suggested way of freeing these up?

 

[legrandefromage]

Flush, flush and flush again with something to break down the guggy old grease. Keep flushing until they feel better, then use a machine oil like 3in1 to re-lubricate them

 

[sickpup]

Anything in particular to flush them with, contact cleaner, WD40 etc?

 

[legrandefromage]

WD40 is okay but not the best. 3in1 will actually work but requires a few days soaking to work

 

[sickpup]

Thank you.

Just remembered I have a parts cleaner full of degreaser and cylinder heads, suppose I should use that really :roll:

 

[millsm]

Re:

I've used electronic contact cleaner for 10 years now with amazing results - dries super quick & dissolves old grease fast. I usually take the cable port cover off, and spray a bunch in there while holding a paper towel under the shifter to catch the drippings. Do it a few times while working the paddles then re-grease with a light lubricant.

 

[FSXStumpy]

Your parts cleaner'll work a treat. Keep flushing and working the shifters till all the grit's gone. Then lube.

For those without a parts cleaner, I get best results from naptha (like Zippo fluid), squirted on and in. Takes about 10 minutes to go from skipping teeth to working perfect.

I use ATF to re-oil, but any light oil works fine.

J

 

[cmjc]

Remove, drop in a jar of diesel or paraffin for a few minutes, lift, shake, click, and repeat until clicking properly.

Dry in the sun, then run in sewing machine oil.

Mine are 25 years old and still working perfectly.

This +is+ why we are retro.

 

[sickpup]

Well two cleaned up no problem but one front isn't. Looks like the ratchet is seized so I guess constant soaking and perseverance will do it.

Thanks all.