Bicycle Mechanics - Cable Soldering Hints Please?

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The Speaker Guy
09-29-02, 06:37 PM
I found a thread on soldering cable ends, but not a lot of specifics on how to do it.

I am kludging back together an old tandem. I tried to solder two shorter cables together for the shifting cables becuase LBS's did not have tandem length cable.

These were older cables. I tried both acid core flux and lead free plumbing solder. No joy. I then tried rosin core 60-40 electronic solder. No Joy

I was using a propane torch. Will it work better with an iron?

I ended up for the short term wrapping copper strands around the two cables and soldering the copper. I am going to order the real thing after I get done here.

Thanks for your help.

pokey
09-29-02, 06:42 PM
stainless cables?No joy.
mechBgon
09-29-02, 06:43 PM
It's not difficult at all for the LBS's to order you a tandem-length wire the next time they get something from J&B or Quality. Didn't they offer to do so, or do you need one right away?

The Speaker Guy
09-29-02, 09:42 PM
They didn't offer.

I like buying stuff online, but I do like to give LBS a shot too.

I've ordered the stuff now
lotek
09-30-02, 07:34 AM
I know that you've ordered cables but
I just have to chime in. Solder, wether it is
solid core, plumbers etc. is not a mechanical connection.
I doubt that it would hold when under stress.
I have seen Solder used to finish cable ends but most
folks just use a ferrule (end cap).

Marty
MichaelW
09-30-02, 07:53 AM
For kludging a long cable out of 2 short ones, a tubular crimp connector should be strong enough.
Solder may be useful for holding a knot in place.
whauxwell
09-30-02, 09:30 AM
You need a liquid flux and in the UK it is called BAKERS FLUID its corrosive so don't use it on anything electric and wash well.
For a temporary repair use the insert from one of the electrical connecting blocks that you should be able to get easily. Put both ends right though and tighten the screws.
Bill
daniel22
09-30-02, 05:47 PM
I used to solder the ends of my cable. I prefer it over caps. Now because of the stainless steel ones, I can no longer do it. Does anyone know how I can solder stainless steel?

Daniel
The Speaker Guy
09-30-02, 08:43 PM
Asking around at work (general, not bike specific knowledge) they said no way to solder stainless.

I thought up another way - Plast-Dip

This is the stuff for recoating tool handles. I'll try it and let y'all know.
alcjphil
10-07-02, 10:16 AM
Stainless steel cables can be soldered using silver solder.