Bicycle Mechanics - Help with Shimano triple front derailleur

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RDL
02-09-07, 07:45 PM
I just switched from a no name triple crankset and bottom bracket to a Shimano ultegra triple crankset. The problem is I cannot get the front derailleur set. With enough cable tension I can get my 52 and 42 chainring but I can not get to the 30 ( the cable is to tight ). If I loosen it I can get my 30 and 42 but not up to 52.
Looking from above the front of the derailleur is close to the chain but the rear is away a little more would this be my problem. I've tried Shimanos directions but I can not get it. I have set it before the new crankset.
Thanks for any help
Richard

Sheldon Brown
02-09-07, 09:56 PM
;)
I just switched from a no name triple crankset and bottom bracket to a Shimano ultegra triple crankset. The problem is I cannot get the front derailleur set. With enough cable tension I can get my 52 and 42 chainring but I can not get to the 30 ( the cable is to tight ). If I loosen it I can get my 30 and 42 but not up to 52.
Looking from above the front of the derailleur is close to the chain but the rear is away a little more would this be my problem. I've tried Shimanos directions but I can not get it. I have set it before the new crankset.
Thanks for any help
Richard
What kind of derailer? What kind of shifters?

Sheldon "Insufficient Data" Brown
RDL
02-10-07, 08:45 AM
Sorry. Shimano 105 shifters(triple) and 105 triple derailleur.

DMF
02-10-07, 09:33 AM
Model numbers would be more helpful. Same with the crankset.

Are the shifters new or used? What makes you think it's a cable tension problem?

Have you adjusted the limit screws?

Maybe a cable routing issue? Or a bad cable?
Retro Grouch
02-10-07, 09:52 AM
Are you sure that you had your shifter in the lowest gear position before you started the adjustment process? That's more common than you might imagine.

The position of the derailleur on the seat tube can be a biggie too. With due credit to Sheldon (His stuff is a lot more fun to read) I like the step-by-step instructions found in parktool.com. My advice is to completely disconnect your shift cable from the derailleur and start over as if you were installing the derailleur for the first time.
Shredder3034
02-10-07, 10:27 PM
When all else fails, download or read installation instructions just in case you might have missed a step. I used to think it was below me. Being a shop mechanic requires first time accuracy. First 3 monmths read everthing and hated it but it made me a better wrench. good luck.
Al1943
02-12-07, 08:41 AM
Are you sure that you had your shifter in the lowest gear position before you started the adjustment process? That's more common than you might imagine.

The position of the derailleur on the seat tube can be a biggie too. With due credit to Sheldon (His stuff is a lot more fun to read) I like the step-by-step instructions found in parktool.com. My advice is to completely disconnect your shift cable from the derailleur and start over as if you were installing the derailleur for the first time.

+1
Do each step in sequence leaving nothing out.