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How to Replace Schwinn Gear Cables

Schwinn manufactured one of the first bicycles to have multiple gears built into the rear wheel. This allowed the rider to change gearing to help increase speed when riding. Eventually, gear cables stretch out and the bicycle no longer shifts properly. You can swap out your old gear cable with a new one to correct the issue. When you purchase the new gear cable you need to purchase one designed to shift your particular bicycle. So, if you have a three-speed Schwinn, you need a three-speed gear cable.

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Wrench
Wire ties
Wire cutters

Instructions

- 1
  Pry loose the casing of the right handlebar gear shifter with a flat head screwdriver. Then pry the metal ball hooked to the end of the cable out of the shifter casing with the flat head screwdriver.
- 2
  Locate the nut on the hub of the back wheel that connects to the end of the shifter cable. It has a hole through the center of it. Remove the nut from the hub by turning it counterclockwise with a wrench.
- 3
  Cut the cable ties that hold the cable on to the frame with a pair of wire cutters, remove the cable from the frame of the Schwinn and place the new cable along the frame of the Schwinn. Use plastic cable ties to secure the cable to the frame.
- 4
  Place the new cable's ball into the gear shifter on the handlebar and then press the casing back onto the shifter lever housing. The casing does not screw into place. It press fits into the lever housing, which holds it in place.
- 5
  Connect the nut to the wheel hub and turn it clockwise to tighten it.
- 6
  Ride the bicycle and attempt to shift it. If it does not shift, turn the nut on the wheel hub clockwise and test it again. Duplicate this step until the Schwinn shifts through all gears.

Bicycles