How to Repair a Broken Bicycle Derailleur?
2 Answers
For the rear derailleur, if shifting is not smooth, it is usually due to rusted or dry cables. A replacement shift cable is relatively inexpensive at a bike repair stand, so you can have it fixed there. Apply grease to the cable before threading it. When replacing or loosening the cable, you generally need to adjust the derailleur's fine-tuning screw. Shift to the lowest gear before threading the cable, pull it tight, and secure the fixing screw (not too tight to avoid damaging the cable). Turn the pedals and shift gears. If all gears work properly, the repair is complete. If shifting is inaccurate or gears won't engage, adjust the fine-tuning screw.
Last time my transmission had issues, the car wouldn't even move—it was really frustrating. There are many reasons for transmission failure, such as severe gear wear or expired transmission fluid causing internal components to seize. You can try some simple checks yourself: first, park and turn off the engine, then use the dipstick to check if the fluid level is normal—the fluid should be clear and not smell bad. If the fluid is low, add some fresh fluid. However, complex issues like internal gear damage can't be fixed with basic tools; you'll need to visit a professional repair shop for computer diagnostics to pinpoint the exact problem. Repairs might involve replacing parts or even a major overhaul, which can be costly—I once spent several thousand dollars to get mine fixed. Prevention is key: change the transmission fluid and filter regularly, avoid slamming the accelerator or shifting gears abruptly, as this can extend its lifespan and prevent sudden breakdowns.