Shimano 333 shifter problem
#1
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Shimano 333 shifter problem
I'm having some problems with an old Shimano 333 shifter. The hub does shift gears, but the shifter (or maybe the hub) does not hold in gear. For those that know about these things, what do I need to look for to find out why it isn't holding. The shifter is a lever type on the handlebar. I'll supply photos or anything else that is needed, if necessary.
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Those shifters and hubs are pretty tough and reliable. The problem could be a missing ball bearing that serves as a detent in the shifter it self. This is a common issue with these shifters. When the shifter is taken apart, or falls apart, that bearing falls out and rolls under the bench. As I recall...a 1/4" bearing is used. You will see where it goes when you open up the shifter. I hope that helps.
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I see where it goes. I'll find a replacement. It helps a lot.
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Got the bearing, fiddled with it a little bit, now it shifts and holds. I now need to adjust it, but it works! Thank you again!
Last edited by sd_mike; 01-15-10 at 09:24 PM.
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Good luck finding replacement shifter. I had a Dicken's of a time locating one - only after I swapped out the Shimano 333 for a SA. And I located the shifter by an utter stroke of fortune.
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No need for a replacement. I need adjustment now. Shifter works fine.
#7
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It's actually supposed to be a 3/16" bearing FWIW.
Also Panthers, you can buy new sturmey shifters. I have a bunch of them!
Also Panthers, you can buy new sturmey shifters. I have a bunch of them!
#9
Call me The Breeze
Ah. Yeah, I always keep them when I come across them just for that reason. I've been told that a new shimano three speed shifter will work with the old hubs, but I've never tried it myself.
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I believe the older Shimano was a 1.5:1 pull ratio. Whereas the SA is, and has been, a 1:1 pull ratio. If the newer Shimano (I haven't seen one yet either) is the same as the old - it should work. Only way to find out is to wait for someone to pull-the-trigger.
#11
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I have a bike with a nexus 3 speed, but I don't have an old shimano 3 sp hub to try it out on.
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I have the old 333 Shimano hub - in working condition. But the government would think we were shipping bombs across the border!
#13
Call me The Breeze
If I had one in the shop now, while I've got time to mess around, then I might consider trying it. I don't think I do though. If I come across one I might just have to give it a go!