Unfortunately I had to change the bars on my Raleigh since the ones on it got bent. I wrapped the bars with white tressostar since that is all I had on hand. I didn't want to fuss about the white getting dirty so I shellaced the bars, which turned the white tape a cream/gold color. I don't mind the color the tape turned out, but I don't like the brake white hoods with it.

That leads to my question, the white hoods are white Campy hoods in flawless condition. Is it a bad idea to try and remove them from the lever bodys? I would probably be replacing them with the generic gum colored hoods from loose screws but I don't want to risk destroying my Campy hoods.

Has anyone done this successfully, is it risky?

Here are some pics:
with the white Campy hoods


mock-up with the gum hoods:


Generic replacements:

It can be done, but I wouldn't try it without gobs and gobs of one sort of lubricant (Palmolive?) or another. The chance of tearing them at the front while slipping it over the body, and at the froward section of the bottom in the process is a bit likely, unless those hoods are extremely fresh.

-Kurt

Before I read you're thread, I'm going to say that if you think it is a bad idea, it probably is.

Now I'm going to read your post.

It depends on the age of the Campy hoods. If they are young and the rubber is still springy and fresh, you should be fine with stretching them - slowly - to get them out of the levers. Old Campy sets of hoods from the 1980's and back are worth a small fortune - if they haven't turned into dust. You'll see those selling for over $200. So if they are old - I'd leave 'em.

It can be a beast getting hoods onto the levers as well as off. Clear your schedule. It's a slow and gradual process. I just put some of the new knock-offs on a set of Campy Super Records from the 1970's. They didn't have hoods. I did my homework - and my eyes popped out when I saw the prices the originals were commanding.

Okay.

Now then.

I'd say do what you want.

Personally, I think it is a terrible idea, because,

1) I think the hoods and tape look fine together. Actually, I like it a lot.

2) Campy hoods are campy hoods are campy hoods are campy hoods are expensive and hard to get. It's not worth risking breaking it. It'd be a little like getting a D'angelico guitar and having your local guitar shop tweak the neck. (I'd say truss rod, but those weren't invented yet, I think).

3) If you do it, send me the hoods. Really. We could work something out. If you see what I mean.

4) Me, I'd leave it be.

Just my unsolicited opinion, buddy.

-Nick

2) I found this magic "2" down here after I finished typing, so why not post one more no. 2 reason- Panthers007 is right. EXPENSIVE.

Well, the hoods are very fresh actually. I would say they look and feel as new as any I have seen. I suppose I could look for a second set of levers, that way I could just switch the entire thing.

Or you could switch them with the generics or sell them to me.

Short of that, a very, very, very careful and proper removal

or just new levers

are both great ideas.

Ha, i just made an impulse purchase. Got some nice looking NR brake levers for about 30.00 shipped, so that takes care of that I suppose. I have some B-day cash on hand so I knew I was bound to blow it soon enough.

I also prefer the look of the white hoods. just my $0.02

If you want to change the hoods without destroying the present ones, remove the levers from the bars and slide the hoods off the back of the levers. You can remove the levers without disturbing the bar tape; just remove the fixing bolt and leave the clamp and mounting stud on the bar. Slide the hoods off the back, slide the new ones on from the back, and remount onto the clamps.