stephr1

I have a 1999 Specialized Hardrock MTB still in fairly good shape. No rust that I can tell. I use it 3x a week for exercise (Love getting out at sunup in the fresh, clear air and minimal traffic

I was wondering abt the cables (x2) guide on the underside of the bottom bracket. I believe both the front and rear der cables are routed thru it. More specifically, should I be concerned abt it wearing out? If so, any suggestions for replacing it?

Thanks in advance and cheers.....

Soody

They don't tend to wear out. Replacement is generic if it has and any bike shop or parts bin will have em for cheap/free.
They do grime up though, which impacts shifting. Get under there and clean it
They can also loosen so tighten the bolt.

stephr1

Appreciate the response. I use a dry lube on the cable so I do check it for gunk when I do that.

How do I know if it has worn down to the point of needing replacement? Do I look for the frame showing thru in a worn spot? Or something more subtle? BTW - It looks in usable condition, but I don't know if that's a reasonable assessment.

Soody

You're overthinking this. If it's not demonstrably worn out, it's fine.
I wouldn't recommend you lube the cable through there either. Lube in that place will very very quickly turn into gunk

stephr1

Nah. Not overthinking it (but do appreciate the reminder It's just something I hadn't spent much of any time thinking about. I'm abt to do my wheel and head bearings and realized I hadn't really given the cable guide much thought. Apparently the dry lube I've been using has been good abt not gunking things up....so far.

Thanks much for the help and feedback....cheers....