Need to replace Shimano 600EX 6-speed index downtube shifter
05-18-10, 11:45 AM
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Need to replace Shimano 600EX 6-speed index downtube shifter
My shifter went out on my '87 TREK 560EX. It has the downtube braze-on index 6-speed shimano 600 shifter set. I have not been able to locate a replacement. Any options? Anyone know a good place to look for one? What if I were to get a 7-speed or 8-speed shifter- would I just need to replace the freewheel with a 7 or 8 speed? Did they make those in freewheel designs, or is that when they switched to cassettes?
05-18-10, 01:04 PM
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Freewheels are available in 6, 7 or 8-speeds. 8's aren't recommended due to spacing issues so I'd stay with a 6 or 7-speed set-up.
05-18-10, 02:12 PM
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You can replace those with any kind of Shimano 6sp index shifter (light action, 105, Exage Sport/Motion/Action.) They all work fine. No need for 600EX (make sure that if you get one it is the SL-6208, and not the SL-6207 part that is friction only)
05-26-10, 05:29 PM
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Well, I found a replacement, but the infamous tabs broke off instantly. I would like to use and trust this bike, so I should probably replace both shifters with something newer or more reliable. I have read on Sheldon B's site that that particular shifter had the aforementioned design flaw. So, can I replace the shifters and the freewheel with a 7 or 8 speed setup? I think my r.d. will work with either. The rear wheel spacing is 126mm. Any thoughts on what to look for?
05-26-10, 05:35 PM
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If its 126mm spacing you'll want 7, and as mentioned above the Shimano SL or 105 7 speed shifters are nice and can be had on ebay pretty reasonably.
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05-26-10, 09:36 PM
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I don't suppose I could use 7-speed shifters and keep using the 6-speed freewheel? If I need to get a freewheel, does it need to be a shimano HG 7 speed? Thanks for your help
05-26-10, 09:59 PM
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I tried that with poor results. IMHO, you are much better off with a 7 speed freewheel. I believe there is still an aftermarket freewheel that is more of a road gear than MTB, but it's not Shimano brand, I'm not sure who makes it.
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05-27-10, 10:17 AM
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I Just put a 8 speed hub on the Trek 560. Went in easy. Haven't decided if I am going to use friction mode or swap in the 8 speed downtube shifters
I have in a box. Also I saw these Diacomp shifters they look nice.
I have in a box. Also I saw these Diacomp shifters they look nice.
