Originally Posted by
univega.duder
Ha - this made me laugh. "Rarely works" has also been my experience with reverse drill bits but I decide to try anyway. I used some penetrating oil along with the ez-out. I also pried the cable slot with a flat head screwdriver as some had suggested. I futzed for about 20 minute before mangling the whole thing to oblivion. I will now be hunting for replacement brake levers. Hopefully I can find something at the co-op.
Thank you all for the many thoughtful and creative suggestions. I really appreciate the bike-forum members sharing of experience and expertise. Hoping it some of it will rub off on me!
sorry the lever got shredded... you might want to take the lever with you so that the shop folks can match up the pull ratio AND see the carnage... most mechanics love to see carnage.
And i REALLY hope you can get those cork grips off without damaging them....... maybe it's time for new ones anyway, eh? Hand Grips 101, Module 3, Removal. "if they're glued, they're screwed"
Tip: If removing rubbery grips, slip an old dull long blade screwdriver in from the brake side(move the brake perch inward to make room)..... then squirt a bit of CRC Lectra-motive in.. Quickly Remove the Screwdriver and twist the grip loose... To re-install, Clean the bar with a bit of CRC Lectra-motive and a paper towel to remove any oils and gunk.. squirt a bit into the grip, roll it around to distribute, then slide the grip on.. let set for an hour or so. Always Wear Safety Glasses/Goggles when using nasty chemicals. Too much CRC Lectra on the outside of the grip will dissolve some of the rubbery stuff and leave a mess... I towel it off quickly if it gets on the outside.