Bicycle Mechanics - Creaking cable adjuster

I'd appreciate any advice on this problem I've had for a few months. One of my cable adjusters (pictured below) makes a creaking sound every time the handlebars move. It seems to come from the ferrule rubbing against the threaded cable stop; if I spray some oil in there it will quiet up for a few days but always comes back. I've tried both cleaning it out and covering it with grease to no avail. I was thinking about removing the ferrule - are they necessary in this location? Are plastic ones available? any other suggestions appreciated.

Plastic ferrules are available and yes, a ferrule is needed in this location.

You should continue to use a ferrule since it prevents the cable from twisting when you adjust the stop. It also prevents the ends of the long spiral index housing from damaging the bottom of the adjuster or getting pinched closed if it has a conical bottom, as most do.

You might replace the ferrule with one made specifically for index housing, either in metal or plastic. Index ferrules have flat bottoms on the inside to prevent the housing wires from pinching in. The plastic ferrules have a flat steel washer pressed into the bottom. Meanwhile I wouldn't take it apart. You might try disolving some heavier oil or grease in solvent so it wicks in and ends up leaving a more durable lubricating film inside.

you may want to take a close look at the cable/housing length. too short and it may create excess friction. that could be the root cause.

you may want to take a close look at the cable/housing length. too short and it may create excess friction. that could be the root cause.


Now that you mention it, the one that creaks is marginally shorter than the one that doesn't. I'll get plastic ferrules and replace the housing with a slightly longer one - thanks for the advice!