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When do I need to replace the cable housings on my bike?
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If your cable housing is stiff, shows signs of damage, such as a kink, or is getting old, it may be a good idea to install replacements. Working on cable housings is not particularly difficult but does require the proper tools.
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How do I replace the cable housings on my bike?
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- Cable Cutters
- Wire Snips
- Awl or Similar Pointed Tool
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Typical wire cutters, such as those built into needle-nosed pliers, are not nearly strong enough to cut brake cable housing. If you attempt to use such cutters, the cable will usually get crushed, and the cut will not be clean enough to accept the cable.
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Start by removing the cable housing you want to replace from your bike.
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If you are replacing a brake cable housing, start by disconnecting the cable from the brake. On cantilever brakes, the proper place to disconnect the cable will be on the yoke between the calipers. On caliper (or side-pull) brakes, you will find the cable attached to one of the arms.
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If you are replacing a derailleur cable, find the point where the cable meets the derailleur and disconnect the cable.
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Work the cable toward the handlebar and disconnect it from the levers or shifters. Pay attention because you will have to reverse this process when reinstalling the cable.
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Measure a length of cable housing equal to the one you want to replace.
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Derailleur cable housings and brake cable housings are designed differently, and they are not interchangeable. Some cables are designed to work with special housing only, and some housing with special cables only.
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Cut the cable housing with the right kind of cutters. Use a quick and strong motion.
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If the end of the cable is not flat, use regular cable snips to even it out.
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Use your awl (or anything else pointy, really) and clear the end of the cable housing.
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Place the end caps (also known as ferrels) onto the cable housing.
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Thread the cable through the housing.
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Attach the cable to your bicycle. This process will depend on which cable housing you are replacing.
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For more information on adjusting front and rear derailleurs or different kinds of brakes after changing a cable housing, see our other articles.
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