ChilliPepper

I'm trying to install a set of Suntour Power bar-ends. These are from sealed, NOS with instructions, so I'm surprized I need to ask.

Among the pieces, there is two (2) .100" diameter x .317" long roll pins (or look like roll pins). Although decent, the original instructions neither show, or mention these two pins. What are they for? thanks

And while it's on my mind, I must ask if these "Power" (friction only) are the ones everybody has been raving about? - the orange & white instruction sheet indicates "No. 3090". Although they are reasonably smooth in operation, and function, the quality seems sub-par - far from junk, but certainly not Superbe looking. Are the later (black) Accushifts bar-ends any better than these.. performance and quality wise? Speaking friction mode ONLY.

Grand Bois

I know what you mean. I think they're downright cheap looking. The levers are overly thick, like they're made from weak material. They're not well finished. The chrome on the clamp on stop that came with them appears to be very thin. Hold it next to any Campy chrome part and you'll see a big difference.

I don't remember any pins coming with mine.

takara14

The Suntour stuff acquired its reputation because it worked very well. Mine are very beat up looking and work "Superbely". Friction adjustment is a bit fiddly. Remember, these are circa 1975 components. It was not until later that manufacturers upgraded styling and surface finish. Campy stuff of the time was very attractive, but they're Italian and it's the artist coming out. Just about all of the other stuff of the time was utilitarian in appearance and finish except for, maybe, Huret Jubilee.

Rabid Koala

I use SunTour Power barcon shifters on all my bikes and can't imagine using anything else. Maybe not the strongest aesthetically, but do they ever WORK!

I have removed Campy barcons in favor of SunTours. The SunTours are much better than the Campy ones.

ChilliPepper

Thanks everybody...... now, about those mysterious pins?

cudak888 

Remove the rubber covers and polish the aluminum surfaces with the sandpaper+polishing compound technique if you desire a high-end look.

As for the pins - I've never been able to examine a complete set, so I'm not sure what pins you're referring to. Got a picture?

-Kurt

FRANKIEJ

Did these come with the cables in the bag? If so, these are probably the little caps that you crimp onto the end of the cable to prevent it from fraying. I've bought a few sets of these at the lbs and that is the only thing in the bag that remotely resembled a roll pin. Are they aluminum and open only on one end?

ChilliPepper

Yes, FRANKIEJ, cables and stainless steel housings, sealed in Suntour packaging. A complete install kit. The two pins I refer, are .100" in diameter and .317" long. Look like tiny roll pins. I havn't checked but doubt you could slip these tiny guys over the cables.

EDIT;

oops! I stand blushingly corrected. There are in fact, end caps for the cables. Thanks everybody, I'm gone.

unworthy1

Well, with the roll-pin question settled: I have used both the "classic" and cruder Power Bar Cons as well as the 7-speed Accushift version (in dark gray). The modern ones are a little more finely finished, but more like a Shimano finish (and not DA) than anything Campy. I didn't think my Campy barend shifters were any bit of jewelry either, though, and even the clunky old Suntours are much better performing than those were. Sometimes beauty is not just in appearances. I never did a RD "friction mode" comparison between the old style and the Accushifts, but the front derailleur control was friction only for both and can't recall any major difference between them. I must say I like the fine-toothed ratchet action that the old ones have even if it means they are bulkier and heavier, and still use them on my Holdsworth Touring bike.

BluesDawg

They're crude old crap. Send them to me and I'll dispose of them for you.