TECH: Make your own custom length cables

[sumo]

Fantastic!!!!!!

I have had problems with regular solder. Just lead? or is there a different composition that won't pull through? I have cleaned, and got the the solder to take well ( best I can tell) but I have had the cable pull out?

if you splay the ends of the cable before you solder it then it is pretty much impossible to pull it out. you are effectively putting a wedge inside the cable itself this way.

may be the flux you used was different - i only use bakers for cables not regular flux, or maybe you just didnt get it hot enough or something, maybe the cable was dirty? dont really know without seeing your setup. but done like the pics i shot with the stuff i use they are pretty bullet proof

[oildevil13]

We use the same technique to "babbit" rope socket ends on cable tools that we run up to 10,000 ft into the ground. Splaying the end of the cable is the key. Ive poured lead babbit, and in the last few years we use a compound similar, but application specific, to JB Weld.... we put a whole lot more strain on those rope sockets than you ever will with a throttle or a clutch.... even comparatively (sp?) A little brake cleaner to get the cable really clean... Great post Sumo... thanks. Its a black art until somebody tells you! Ive made a few cables for my bikes.... and I wont embarrass myself describing the completely retarded, long way around, what the fuck was I thinking methods I used. I do this kind of thing at work... yet at home I try to reinvent the wheel! Wylie Coyote was an amatuer.

[pangeaspeed]

great article, this makes perfect sence.

[junkyard2]

thank you for the info

[turtle]

learn something new every day!

[wilber1191]

Very nicet if wish I had this info about three months ago when I was making my foot clutch cable. I ended up making and using a set screw set up to secure the cable end.

[Guest]

I'm ordering some new cables today and will be putting this thread to use. Thanks.

[slumchop]

i like that, i always did mine with a solder pot though, gonna try it this way next time i do some cables.

[Punkskalar]

Worked really well for me. Spun the ends out of an old brass punch, used silver solder from NAPA. Looks professional, and cheap to make...

[djturnz]

I don't have an old fashion soldering iron. Can I just use the same propane torch I used to solder copper pipe?

[Guest]

it fuckin worked!

[Sighless]

Alright, I'll be doin this after work.

Update:
I'll be damned, it works good. and here I thought I'd be bikeless for the weekend.

[wayfastwhitey]

very good sir!!

[Guest]

Is the use of the soldering iron mandatory or can I apply heat directly to the nipple???

[killkill]

anyone have any other ideas as to where to get cable supplies? maybe around the PA area?