crater

how do I do this?! I have old brakes and the cable comes out of the top

carpediemracing 

You have to remove the cable first.

Depending on brake you might be able to remove cable through the anchor stop without actually unbolting anything. Open the brake quick release (or drop the wheel out just enough so you can squeeze the brake pads together), squeeze brake pads together. This should get cable slack at the lever. You should be able to unhook the cable end with some fiddling.

Then put the hood on (slide it on, soapy water or other non-permanent lube helps).

Then re-install cable end.

hope this helps
cdr

Dalai

Will the soap lube idea work with current campagnolo hoods with the thumb lever or are there other tricks?

As I just removed my worn Chorus hoods which even though worn took a bit of effort. I don't want to damage the new hoods whilst installing! Would also warming the covers up in water to soften help?