Bicycle Mechanics - Problem with Down Tube Shifters

I have an older ten speed with down tube shifters. I believe the problem is with the tension on the cables. It simply will not hold any gear in place--when I upshift and let go of the lever, it goes back down to a lower gear; won't stay in gear. Any ideas of how would i go about fixing this?? Thanks.

I have an older ten speed with down tube shifters. I believe the problem is with the tension on the cables. It simply will not hold any gear in place--when I upshift and let go of the lever, it goes back down to a lower gear; won't stay in gear. Any ideas of how would i go about fixing this?? Thanks.

Usually the tension is adjusted by tightening the bolt or screw which secures the lever to the frame. Tighten it up a bit until it's still easy enough to move but not loose enough to slip.

With some of them you might need to disassemble to clean the friction faces if that is causing the slipping.

Usually the tension is adjusted by tightening the bolt or screw which secures the lever to the frame. Tighten it up a bit until it's still easy enough to move but not loose enough to slip.

With some of them you might need to disassemble to clean the friction faces if that is causing the slipping.

Thanks very much--I will give it a try.

I have had good luck disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling downtube-mounted friction shifters, using White Lightning as a damping lubricant.

Never lube downtube friction shifters, brake surfaces, or clutch plates.