Bicycle Mechanics - Installing a Front Derailleur

I just purchased an XT front derailleur today and was wondering if i should just install it myself ?

well... have you ever installed one before? do you have basic knowledge of bike mechanics? I'm guessing you have not installed one before, (otherwise you wouldn't have asked ;)) so on that note, it probably wouldn't hurt if you went to your LBS and asked them to show you how to do it. it might cost some but at least you learn it right the first time :)

if you still want to install it yourself, (I'm guessing you bought it new) the Shimano instrucstions with the derailleur, will detail what you need to do, to install it. but I'm sure some of the other guys here can give you detailed instructions too

:D hope this helps

Go ahead and put it on yourself, its really easy.

Well i do have more than average bike mechanics, <building a road bike> ... when i put the one on the road bike tomm. i'll put this one on...should be fairly easy...

--Do you guys own mtn. bikes? If so check this out...

I've got a shimano xl on the front der. and have a shimano xt-- any improvement on the bike, or should i just wear out the lx then put the xt?

oh yeah...and do better back derailleur improve performance noticable?

I replaced a frount derailor myself it was simpley a matter of alignment and getting the proper clearance, like about 3mm higher then the big ring then setting the limet screws to keep the chain from moving too far and also far enough. and thats about it.

If you ever get the chance to go to a park tool school class it is well worth your time and money i think it cost about 120 dollars but you completly disemble and over haul your bike. The confidance I gained on bikle mechanics is priceless

Originally posted by Mikew305
I just purchased an XT front derailleur today and was wondering if i should just install it myself ?

Yes.

Originally posted by John E


Yes.

thanks for the detailed answer... :rolleyes:

Mounting a front derailure is trickier than it looks.

The real trick is getting the derailure lined up correctly. I suggest getting a book that describes the details.

Simple hints:

1) position the derailure so that the edge of the derailure is as close to the biggest chain-ring with out touching it when it is in the big chain-ring position.

2) Make sure that the derailure is absolutely parallel with the chain-rings.

Check out www.parktool.com there is a detailed "how-to" section which explains what to do and pictures to show you how to do it!

Look here: http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/howfix_frontderailleur.shtml

I hope that link works!

L8R